Superintendent Hite, SRC Chair Joyce Wilkerson Issue Statements on Mayor Kenney’s Speech on Return to Local Control

PHILADELPHIA — Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, and Joyce Wilkerson, Chair of the School Reform Commission, have issued statements regarding Mayor Jim Kenney’s Nov. 2 speech on the return to local control.

Dr. Hite’s statement is as follows:

“I will continue to advocate for the resources that will increase the successes, stability and positive momentum we have been able to achieve as a School District.  I am optimistic and excited about the future of the School District of Philadelphia and about our work to improve academic outcomes.”

“Our priorities remain the same.  We are focused on our early literacy efforts, preparing students for college and career, recruiting and retaining great talent, and maintaining financial stability.  Our work will make sure that all students in Philadelphia have a great school close to where they live.”

Chair Wilkerson’s statement is as follows:

“The School Reform Commission was created in 2001 as a temporary form of governance for the School District of Philadelphia.  Since then the School District has weathered multiple fiscal crises and leadership changes.  The District now has a balanced budget, strong leadership in Dr. Hite and is making real academic progress.”

“As a result of this progress and stability, we have the opportunity to reexamine the governance structure including the restoration of local control. On November 16 a resolution will come before the SRC which would take the first step in a process to bring local control of the School District back to Philadelphia. Strong public education is the most significant factor in the welfare of our city and the future of our children. It is time for Philadelphia to take ownership of that future.”

In addition, the SRC resolution that will be considered on the upcoming November 16 meeting is posted here.