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PHILADELPHIA — Four School District of Philadelphia high school science teachers have been selected for the 2021 inaugural cohort of the Naval Education Workplace Training (NEWT) Program. The teachers are Maya Bhagat of Frankford High School, Lee Burwasser of Academy at Palumbo High School, Paula Miller of Abraham Lincoln High School and Jason Perez of…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Pусский | Español | Việt April 12, 2021 Dear School District of Philadelphia Parents and Families, We know that this year has been filled with many uncertainties for our families so we want to share some important information about…

PHILADELPHIA, PA—Academy at Palumbo School Nurse Eileen Duffey-Bernt, M.Ed., BS, RN, CSN, has been named the 2021 Pennsylvania School Nurse of the Year. She was selected among seven finalists across the state by the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) for her outstanding service to the students and staff of the School District of Philadelphia….

The School District of Philadelphia launched a new COVID-19 dashboard, providing the latest information on confirmed positive cases in our schools on its website.  “We understand that having access to real-time information about COVID positivity rates in our schools is important for our families and community, and we are happy to provide this new tool,”…

School District and City Announce 2021 Summer Learning Programs for Students The School District of Philadelphia announced today that it is expanding summer program opportunities for 2021 and will offer something for students at every grade level. Through partnerships with the city and local organizations, these opportunities will combine project-based learning with extra-curricular programming, providing…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Pусский | Español | Việt April 5, 2021 Dear School District Families, I am pleased to share that the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT) has completed its readiness reviews for the remaining 23 schools that needed to be cleared…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Pусский | Español | Việt April 5, 2021 Phase II Learning Model Selection Survey Opens Tuesday, April 6 Hello Families, On Tuesday, April 6th, the School District will open its Phase II Learning Model Selection Process, allowing families of…

Name: Noor Rana School: Masterman High School Nominated By: Heather Marcus - School Counselor Many of us would consider ourselves lucky if we knew our purpose, all the more so if we were able to articulate it. That profound clarity often escapes even the most determined people. So listening to Masterman senior Noor Rana clearly...

In honor of Youth Arts Month, we are sharing a success story of one of our alumni and current teachers!  Abraham Lincoln High School Film & Video Production Teacher Publishes First Edition of New Comic Book Series Abraham Lincoln High School teacher Shannon Newby has a quite lengthy resume. Outside of being an educator, Newby…

Name: Ali Shabazz School: Central High School Nominated By: Benjamin Hover – Teacher There’s a feeling you get when you are in the presence of greatness. The feeling can manifest differently — pride, respect, even jealousy. For this writer, the feeling during my conversations with Ali Shabazz was awe. Ali is awesome. The humility and…

The School District of Philadelphia is announcing several updates for students and families due to spring break, which will run from Monday, March 29 through Friday, April 2, 2021. During this time, all schools will be closed and there will be no instruction taking place for students. Administrative offices will be closed on Friday, April…

Read message in your language (coming soon): SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Pусский | Español | Việt March 25, 2021 Dear School District families, Now that all of our PreK-2 families have had the opportunity to opt into hybrid learning, we are excited to announce the next phase of our plan to slowly and safely welcome more…

Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush senior earns “Best in Show” honor Two School District of Philadelphia students have been recognized in the Pennsylvania Art Education Association Youth Art Month Exhibition. The 2021 Virtual YAM Art Exhibit runs now through April 8, and showcases visual art selections from youth all across Pennsylvania. Arts Academy at Benjamin…

Read message in your language (coming soon): SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Pусский | Español | Việt March 22, 2021 Dear School District Families, I am pleased to share that the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT) has now completed its readiness reviews for 22 more schools, all of which will reopen for in-person learning starting Monday, April…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Pусский | Español | Việt March 15, 2021 Dear School District Families, I am pleased to share that the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT) has now completed its readiness reviews for 35 more schools, all of which will reopen for in-person learning starting Monday, March 22nd, for…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Pусский | Español | Việt March 12, 2021 Dear Families, Next week, the School District will reopen its Learning Model Selection Process, allowing PreK-2 families who initially chose the 100% digital learning model in the fall the opportunity to opt into hybrid learning (a mix of in-person…

Wawa Donates 3,000 Appreciation Kits to the Fund for Philadelphia School District to Distribute to Essential Employees on the One Year Anniversary of the Pandemic as a Thank You for Ongoing Service Wawa and The Fund for Philadelphia School District are reflecting on the one year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic by recognizing over 3,000…

While the pandemic has prevented traditional in-person learning at the School District of Philadelphia, theatre and performing arts has continued to thrive for many students, including those at Girard Academic Music Program (GAMP), where this year’s musical will be done online. “Click for Cabaret,” will provide students in grades 5-12 grade the opportunity to perform…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Pусский | Español | Việt March 8, 2021 Dear School District Families, I am pleased to share that the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT) has now completed its readiness reviews for 45 more schools, all of which will reopen for in-person learning starting Monday, March 15, for…

The Mann partners to connect high school students to the music industry workforce to help close the opportunity gap in West Philadelphia PHILADELPHIA  – Twenty-five high-school students in West Philadelphia are exploring the inner workings of the music industry and its potential for a fulfilling career path as the first cohort of the Mann Center…

Read message in your language (more coming soon): SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Pусский | Español | Việt March 1, 2021 Dear Parents and Families, I am pleased to share that the City-led third-party mediation process between the School District and the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT) has successfully concluded. We have agreed on a plan to…

Name: Goddess Wiggins School: Vaux Big Picture High School Nominated By: Vivian Shaw – Teacher Ask someone what their hopes and dreams are, and they could probably tell you. But ask them what their plan is to accomplish those hopes and dreams, and the answer might not be as easy. It’s been said that “a…

Name: Youma Diabira School: Central High School Nominated By: Kelly Coutts – Counselor When you love something or someone, you want it to be the best that it can be. It is a difficult concept for many. It means that sometimes you have to admonish, reprimand or discipline what you love. Sometimes it means having…

Read message in your language (coming soon): SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt February 25, 2021 Dear School District of Philadelphia Families, I am happy to share that the city-led third-party mediation process between the School District of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers on the phased reopening of our city’s public schools is nearing conclusion….

Academy at Palumbo High School robotics students won first place in the CoderZ Pro League World Championship, an international robotics competition designed to engage students with challenges and opportunities to work collaboratively in teams. The virtual competition took place Thursday, Jan. 28 and featured teams from 29 states and 20 countries. The RoboGriffins, the student robotics...

PHILADELPHIA, PA — Six finalists are moving on to the final round of the School District of Philadelphia’s first Student Oratorical Contest, an event showcasing the talents of high school students. The event, which will be hosted by Philadelphia-born rapper Chill Moody, will broadcast on Facebook Live on Friday, Feb. 26 at 4 p.m. Nearly...

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt February 22, 2021 Dear School District of Philadelphia Families, I want to update you on why I continue to believe we are ready to start reopening our schools for in-person learning, starting on March 1 with PreK-2 students whose families selected hybrid learning. As I’ve shared…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt Dear Families, I know that many of you are excited about your student’s return to school in person next week. However, I am writing to share the disappointing news that, due to ongoing third-party mediation requested by the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, the start of our…

In anticipation of the winter snow storm expected to impact the Philadelphia region Thursday, Feb. 18 the School District of Philadelphia will close all buildings tomorrow, including all Family Technology Support Centers, Specialized Services Regional Centers, District headquarters at 440 North Broad Street and all school buildings. These closures will allow for the safe clearing…

GSK announces over $1M for local nonprofits to increase equity in STEM education and careers; Grants include funding for online science during pandemic Investments will support in-school, out-of-school and career training programs PHILADELPHIA _ Global healthcare company GSK today announced the selection of five grantees as part of its 10-year commitment to increase the number...

Celina Velez Music Director - Cayuga Elementary School Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Celina Velez has devoted her career to working with Philadelphia’s Latino community. “I always want my students to feel passionately and positive about their music-making experiences,” she said. As the music director at Cayuga Elementary School, she uses singing, movement and rhythm exercises to open the...

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt After nearly a year of 100% digital learning due to COVID-19, our School District will soon begin slowly and safely phasing in groups of staff and students for in-person learning. Students who choose to transition to a mix of in-person and digital learning (hybrid learning) will attend…

For Monday, Feb. 8, virtual learning for students will occur as previously scheduled by your child’s school. Students are expected to log in for any scheduled teacher-led instruction. The District’s Facilities team is working throughout the day to safely clear snow from all roadways, walkways and stairs on District properties. This means all District buildings…

It is deeply disappointing that PFT has directed its members to disregard the District’s plan to return staff to buildings in preparation for the return of PreK-2 students on February 22nd. This is in violation of our collective bargaining agreement and the Memorandum of Agreement that the PFT reached regarding the reopening of schools just…

Read message in your language : SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt On Monday, we welcome our PreK-2 teachers and school-based staff back to schools so they can engage in professional development to further strengthen their instructional skills and help prepare their classrooms so we can slowly and carefully begin phasing in our PreK-2 students to in-person…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt As  repairs and improvements are made in our schools, the school-level ventilation reports that are posted online here will change. Certified air balancers are retesting the impacted areas and updating the ventilation reports as new results are available. That’s why some schools that previously had zero occupancy…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt Our Facilities & Maintenance Team continues to install window fans and make other needed repairs to ventilation systems to support proper ventilation in our schools as we prepare to safely welcome back staff and students in phases for in-person teaching and learning. As a reminder, window fans…

This week - February 1-5 - we will honor our talented school counselors. We hope you will enjoy  reading these profiles as much as we enjoyed creating them. Remember, there are hundreds of other counselors who weren't highlighted here, so make sure to celebrate the counselors that you know on social media using #SDPThankACounselor! {{...

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt Proper ventilation in our schools is one of the layers of safety that will be in place in all of our school district buildings as we prepare to phase students back to in-person learning. Certified ventilation experts have tested nearly every room in every school district building…

Due to the winter snow storm in the Philadelphia area, the following changes to school and District operations will be in effect for Tuesday, Feb. 2: School Schedules Virtual classes will be held with teacher-led instruction in the morning and asynchronous independent tasks assigned by the teacher in the afternoon. This provides our staff, students…

Name: Kamilah Gordon School: Randolph Technical HS Nominated By: Chef Michael Bell - Culinary Arts Teacher How do we know that we are here, on this earth, for a purpose? We’ve all asked ourselves that question, and for many the answer is elusive. For many it takes years, lifetimes, to find that purpose. Some even...

Name: Joseph McCaffrey School: Walter B. Saul HS Nominated By: Kelsey Romano - Teacher Stephen Hawking once said, “Quiet people have the loudest minds.” This quote is profound, and immediately forces a recollection of the quietest people you know. They often evoke the question -- “what is on your mind?” -- the answer is usually,...

MTV Entertainment Group and Save the Music launch first-of-its-kind professional development program to introduce high school students to careers in entertainment New workshop demystifies industry through practical programs that include financial literacy, résumé building, mentorship and intellectual property New York, NY – January 27, 2021 – Today, MTV Entertainment Group’s Culture Club and Save The…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt After nearly a year of 100% digital learning due to COVID-19, our School District will begin slowly and safely phasing in groups of students who choose to transition to a mix of in-person and digital learning (hybrid learning). Students opting into hybrid learning would attend school in...

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt Dear School District of Philadelphia Families: Kindergarten registration for the 2021-2022 school year is now open. If you have a son or daughter who will be five years old on or before September 1st, please register them by May 28th to give them an opportunity to Thrive…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt Dear School District of Philadelphia families, On Wednesday, January 20th, school leaders and staff can plan for a half day of asynchronous and a half day of synchronous learning, so that staff and students have the option to view the inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th…

Six locations will be available to conduct assessments needed to complete special education evaluations and reevaluations PHILADELPHIA, PA — The School District of Philadelphia will open Specialized Services Regional Centers beginning Jan. 25 to determine student eligibility for special education supports and services. These centers will operate out of six schools located across the city…

School District of Philadelphia Adds 39 School Sites for Grab-and-Go Meal Distribution More than six million meals provided for students since school buildings closed due to COVID-19 PHILADELPHIA, PA — This week, the School District of Philadelphia will add 39 sites to its “Grab-and-Go” meals distribution program, making available a total of 102 schools for…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt Dear School District of Philadelphia Parents and Families, Like so many others, I was outraged and horrified by the disgraceful events that unfolded in Washington D.C. this week as armed rioters violently stormed and rampaged the U.S. Capitol. Civil protest is a constitutional right. Storming the capital…

“What we are seeing today with the breaching of our nation’s Capitol by armed rioters is an outrage and the very opposite of what we must model for our students when it comes to resolving conflict. Civil protest is a constitutional right. Storming the capital with guns is not. We must always remember that our…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt Dear Parent and/or Guardian, The School District of Philadelphia is launching an Environmental Advisory Council (EAC), which was a key commitment of the District’s Environmental Safety Improvement Plan launched last year. It is important that members of the EAC reflect all areas of our city, so we…

University of Pennsylvania President Amy Gutmann, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, School Board President Joyce Wilkerson, and Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia William R. Hite Jr., today announced that Penn will contribute $100 million to the School District of Philadelphia, representing an unprecedented commitment to the City and its public schoolchildren. This is the largest private contribution…

Hill-Freedman Records of Hill-Freedman World Academy Releases Original Album THINGS THAT MATTER Collection of Original Student Songs Created in Partnership with World Cafe Live (Philadelphia)--Hill-Freedman Records, the record label of Philadelphia public high school Hill-Freedman World Academy of the School District of Philadelphia, announced the release of THINGS THAT MATTER, an album of 20 original...

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt Dear School District of Philadelphia Families, Based on the most recent updates from the Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH), the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) and Pennsylvania Department of Health (PDH), in order to help safeguard the health and well-being of our staff, students and families,…

Read message in your language: SHQIP | عربي | 汉语 | ខ្មែរ  | Français | Português | Русский | Español | Việt Dear School District of Philadelphia Families: Next Tuesday, November 3, is Election Day. There will be no school for students and our nation will engage in the democratic process of selecting its future leaders. This election season has been deeply divisive, adding to the anxieties and stresses…

Student-led RISE (Rewrite. Inspire. Strengthen. Engage.) Summit focusing on the impact of gun violence in Philadelphia and ways youth can effect change PHILADELPHIA – On Friday, October 30, the School District of Philadelphia hosted its 2nd annual RISE Summit, an opportunity for students to connect and exchange virtually, focusing on the city’s growing public health crisis,...

Baldi Middle School Receives National Recognition for Achievements with Inclusion School District of Philadelphia’s middle school is first in the state to be named a Unified Champion School® by Special Olympics Pennsylvania PHILADELPHIA, PA — The School District of Philadelphia’s C.C.A. Baldi Middle School is the first middle school in Pennsylvania to receive the honor…

School District of Philadelphia School Leader Named National Principal of the Year Paul Robeson High School for Human Services’ Richard Gordon acknowledged as 2020-2021 honoree during National Principals Month Philadelphia, PA – Paul Robeson High School For Human Services’ Principal Richard M. Gordon, IV has been named the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP)…

U.S. Department of Education recognizes School District of Philadelphia elementary school as one of 367 schools with prestigious award PHILADELPHIA — On Thursday, September 24, 2020, the U.S. Department of Education announced that Rhawnhurst Elementary School had been awarded the National Blue Ribbon Schools designation for an exemplary achievement gap closing school. Based on its…

Students from William C. Bryant and General George G. Meade School wrote and illustrated a book honoring the first woman to record a hip hop song PHILADELPHIA — Five students from William C. Bryant and General George G. Meade School were honored by the National Youth Foundation (NYF) for authoring and illustrating the book “Lady…

Paul Robeson High School For Human Services’ Principal Richard M. Gordon, IV will receive the 2020 Distinguished Service to Education Award from the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) during the organization’s Virtual Recognition Awards Program on Monday, July 20. Gordon, who has led Robeson since 2013, was selected as Pennsylvania’s top principal by...

Philly students secure historical marker commemorating 1967 school walkout notorious for Rizzo brutality – Click here to read the WHYY story YESTERDAY’S PROTESTS, TODAY In 1967, thousands of students marched to protest inadequate schooling for Black Philadelphians. In this new moment of racial uprising, a group of high schoolers won the right to honor them. Click here…

MARCH STUDENT OF THE MONTH Name: Yuvaraj (Yuva) Gambhir School: Masterman Nominated By: Gilda Abney – School Counselor Some people have a knack for giving back, without even realizing they are doing it. Almost as if they have an innate understanding that if they are given much, they should give much in return. Yuvaraj (Yuva)…

MARCH STUDENT OF THE MONTH Name: Christopher Facenda-Torres School: Carver Engineering & Sciences HS Nominated By: Ted Domers – Principal The most influential people in history held the deep belief that they were meant for a higher purpose. They understood that they alone were not perfectly equipped, but with guidance, perseverance and faith, they were…

Student Musicians From Throughout Philadelphia Perform in All City High School Musical Festival More than 400 students participated in a night of extraordinary performances with renowned conductor Marin Alsop. The School District of Philadelphia’s Office of The Arts & Creative Learning, in partnership with The Kimmel Center for Performing Arts, presented the “All City High…

Mary Franz – February 2020 Teacher of the Month   Mary Franz is a 9th grade English and 12th grade Social Sciences teacher at Robeson High School. Mary’s nominator, Teacher Resident Daniel Reyes, says that she goes above and beyond to create a classroom environment that promotes equity and appreciates differences. “She has the capacity to directly confront prejudices…

FEBRUARY STUDENT OF THE MONTH Name: Leysha Santiago School: Philadelphia Military Academy Nominated By: Sarah Bruce – Teacher, Russell Gallagher – ROTC Commander You might not notice Leysha Santiago on the street. She’s quiet and observant. Upon meeting Leysha though, you realize that her drive and her influence on others contrasts her unassuming first impression….

FEBRUARY STUDENT OF THE MONTH Name: Treasure Jackson School: The Workshop School Nominated By: Jere Tobias – School Counselor Every generation needs a beacon, a buoy, a stalwart – someone who has the compassion and the will to uplift, uphold and be the voice for others. Treasure Jackson might be that beacon for her generation…

The District Partners with Wells Fargo and United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey for Literacy Program National Read Across America Day and Wells Fargo, in partnership with United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, co-hosted the “Literacy Tools for Schools Celebration & Launch” at Benjamin B. Comegys Elementary School. The brief…

National School Foundation Association (NSFA) Selects School District of Philadelphia Superintendent William R. Hite, Ed.D. as 2020 NSFA Superintendent of The Year PHILADELPHIA — School District of Philadelphia Superintendent William R. Hite, Ed.D. will receive the National School Foundation Association’s (NSFA) 2020 Superintendent of the Year Award when the NFSA convenes its 15th annual National…

District Outlines Progress Around Environmental Safety in Schools at Board Finance and Facilities Committee Meeting Improvements made around inspections and repairs, work continues to better communicate with school communities PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia updated the Board of Education at its Finance and Facilities Committee meeting on its progress to date around the…

JANUARY STUDENT OF THE MONTH Name: Myah Blume School: West Philadelphia HS Nominated By: Tonya Oniyama – Dean of Students Rosa Parks, Ida B. Wells, Fannie Lou Hamer – all influential and powerful black female civil rights leaders. Each fought bravely for the empowerment of others, without regard for their personal safety or success. It…

JANUARY STUDENT OF THE MONTH Name: Sybrie Cofield School: South Philadelphia HS Nominated By: Nicole Monsalud – Teacher Certain stories humble you. They force you to think about the opportunities you have been handed, the favors you’ve been given, the blessings that you have – and then to consider what some amazing and influential people…

District Schools Mark Four Consecutive Years of Improvement Citywide on School Progress Report PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia marked four consecutive years of improvement among both District-led and charter schools during a celebratory event at William Hunter Elementary School in Kensington. Results from the 2018-2019 School Progress Report (SPR) show that the average…

Charles Blain – December Student of the Month Name: Charles Blain School: Academy at Palumbo Nominated By: Cait Kay – Teacher Charles Blain is a renaissance man. “I was taught from a young age that hard work and being well-rounded will pay off as I get older,” says Charles. “Sometimes it’s overwhelming, but I’ve learned…

Horace Ryans – December Student of the Month Name: Horace Ryans School: Science Leadership Academy Nominated By: John Kamal – Advisor Some people are natural born advocates. You can tempt them with distractions and you can present them with other things that require their attention, but they are committed, they are dedicated – they want…

PHILADELPHIA — On Thursday, January 30 the Board of Education recognized 24 National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT); 18 newly certified teachers and 6 renewals. The Board members and Superintendent William R. Hite gathered with the new NBCTs and their mentors to celebrate the teachers accomplishments and recognize their hard work. “While it can sometimes be…

Name: Jennifer Rojas-Sandoval School: Franklin Learning Center High School Nominated By: Christine Garvey – Teacher Every once in a while, someone surprises you. Not simply a “she’s not what I expected” surprise, but a shocking, eye-opening, humbling surprise. Jennifer Rojas-Sandoval is one of those people. Jennifer is polite, kind, and a bit shy. After only…

Name: Ashley Maldonado School: Jules E. Mastbaum Area Vocational Technical HS Nominated By: Olga Torres – Teacher Olga Torres, long-time teacher at Mastbaum High School, describes Ashley Maldonado in two words — “Quiet Leader.” In the brief time we got to spend with Ashley, we learned that she is quiet and unassuming. But she carries…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia has issued the following statement regarding environmental safety at Alexander McClure Elementary School: “Nothing is more important than the health and safety of our students and staff. Our commitment to this guiding principle is evident by our actions — in closing schools, sealing off areas of concern, expanding…

Name: Liliana Mariquinhos-Fernandes School: Swenson Arts & Technology High School Nominated By: Terese Gallen – Teacher Lili, as she is called by friends and family, has always been the glue that keeps her community together. A first generation American citizen – her parents immigrated from Portugal – Lili works hard to keep her family in…

Name: Malik Njeri-Mesquito School: Roxborough HS Nominated By: Deborah Bender – Teacher If you were to ask Malik what has defined his high school experience, he would say “growth!” Malik was the first to say that he hasn’t always been the most motivated student. But if you ask his teacher and nominator, Debi Bender, he…

School District Highlights Expansive Computer Science Offerings Across the City This Computer Science Education Week, focus is on coding, robotics programs and other STEM-related activities PHILADELPHIA — Wednesday, December 11, the School District of Philadelphia  recognized its 8th annual Computer Science Education Week with a visit to Henry A. Brown School, where Dr. William R....

School District and Drexel to Break Ground on New Facility for Powel, SLAMS Schools in West Philadelphia PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia and Drexel University held a ceremonial groundbreaking, Monday, Dec. 9 for a building that will house two public schools in West Philadelphia. The School District of Philadelphia will lease the building...

October's Teacher of the Month is Marcel Reynolds. Marcel is an Autistic Support teacher at Frankford High School who, according to her nominator, Principal Michael Calderone, has established herself as a leader among her peers despite being new to Frankford. Marcel works hard to ensure that her school is an effective learning organization and that her...

Dobbins Unveils “Extreme School Makeover” $39 million investment improves classrooms, builds new CTE labs, replaces several critical building systems, and more PHILADELPHIA –  The School District of Philadelphia today celebrated the unveiling of $39 million in renovations at Murrell Dobbins Career and Technical Education (CTE) High School as part of the school’s “Extreme School Makeover.”...

School District Cuts Ribbon on New Livestock Center at W.B. Saul High School Superintendent and Pa. Dept. of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding Celebrate Dedication with School Principal, Teachers and Students PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia celebrated the dedication of the new, 3,900 square foot Livestock Center at W.B. Saul High School, the state’s...

PHILADELPHIA — Pennsylvania State Representative Joseph Hohenstein, D-Phila., announced that six School District of Philadelphia schools in his district will each receive $10,000 in grant funding to invest in cultural education, literacy, STEM resources and supplies. “Our children are our most precious gifts, and I hope this grant money shows all the children in each...

PHILADELPHIA — The U.S. Department of Education today recognized two schools within the School District of Philadelphia as National Blue Ribbon Schools: George Washington Carver Engineering and Science High School and Joseph J. Greenberg Elementary School. “The School District of Philadelphia congratulates both Carver and Greenberg on this exciting achievement,” said Dr. William R. Hite,...

Find Your Fit” Campaign Highlights Educational Options For Students PHILADELPHIA – Students in the School District of Philadelphia can now begin the process of “finding their fit” for the 2020-2021 school year. The School District’s K-12 School Selection process for the 2020-2021 runs until 5 p.m. on Friday, November 1, 2019. The school selection process...

PHILADELPHIA -- The School District of Philadelphia, in partnership with AASA, The School Superintendents Association, Triway International Group, and China Educational Association of International Exchange, welcomed principals, educators and administrators from China to Philadelphia classrooms Wednesday, Sept. 18, as part of AASA’s educational exchange program. As part of the program, earlier this year, administrators from...

Introducing The Philadelphia Orchestra’s APPLE program Appreciation Program for Philadelphia School District Leaders in Education In partnership with the School District of Philadelphia, The Philadelphia Orchestra launches its free ticket program for School District teachers, administrators, and staff. Designed to give back to those who devote so much to the children and communities of Philadelphia, APPLE (Appreciation Program for PhilaSD Leaders in Education) offers School...

The Trust for Public Land Unveil New Playground at Ben Franklin Elementary Dr. William R. Hite, superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, joined Mayor Jim Kenney; Councilwoman Cherelle Parker; Principal Roslynn Sample-Greene; Owen Franklin, State Director, The Trust for Public Land; students and staff to celebrate the opening of the new green schoolyard at…

The Board of Education includes two non-voting student representatives who serve in an advisory capacity to represent the interests of students in Philadelphia. The student board members represent their peers by communicating student opinions to the School Board, and reporting Board deliberations and actions to the student body. Doha Ibrahim Doha Ibrahim is a senior…

PHILADELPHIA – Dr. William R. Hite, superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, Mayor Jim Kenney, Board of Education President Joyce Wilkerson, Principal Carolyn Williams, additional elected officials, students and families officially opened the 2019-2020 school year by ringing school bells at Robert Morris Elementary School in North Philadelphia. “As we begin the school year,…

The District’s Back to School Event is designed to help Philadelphia area students and their families as they prepare to return to school. With the help of many great partners and sponsors, backpacks, school supplies, health screenings, and social service resources are provided to thousands of students, free of charge. This is a fun way…

On Wednesday, August 14, the School District of Philadelphia held a press conference at Citizens Bank Park to encourage families to get excited about the first day of school, which is Tuesday, September 3. Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent; Mayor Jim Kenney; Board of Education President Joyce Wilkerson; and District students, including the championship-winning Frankford…

Philadelphia, August 12, 2019 – Mayor Jim Kenney, Council President Darrell L. Clarke (5th District), Superintendent William R. Hite, and the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA) kicked off Philadelphia Solar Week by announcing the Year 2 outcomes of the Philadelphia Energy Campaign, and spotlighting the “energy makeover” of Northeast High School. In just two years, the…

Two years ago the first freshman class of Parkway Center City Middle College (PCCMC) began the Summer Bridge program on the campus of the Community College of Philadelphia (CCP). Two years from now they will graduate with an associate degree and high school diploma. An event on Thursday, July 25 at CCP celebrated this success….

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia will offer extended hours at its Education Center July 15-19 for families to enroll their children in school-based, full-day, free pre-Kindergarten for the 2019-2020 school year. “I encourage all parents and guardians to enroll their children in pre-K,” said Dr. William R. Hite, superintendent of The School District…

We are pleased to share that our superintendent, Dr. William Hite, was honored with the prestigious Lifelong Learning Award by Philadelphia’s public media station, WHYY, at its 18th annual President’s Dinner last evening. This award is presented each year during an event featuring the area’s leading civic, corporate and major public media supporters. Previous recipients…

City employee Charles Reyes recognized for service to the community where he grew up PHILADELPHIA – On June 13, 2019, national morning show “Good Morning America” broadcast a live pop-up show from Philadelphia’s Eakins Oval, in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The ABC show selected Philadelphia to be the first stop on a…

$1.3 million grant will expand national book choice and ownership program to every elementary school Philadelphia – The School District of Philadelphia and Book Trust, a national organization supporting book ownership and early reading in schools, along with the William Penn Foundation, announced a four-year partnership that will expand Book Trust’s program to reach all…

Multi-year initiative to analyze changing communities throughout city and solicit input about how to serve shifting school populations PHILADELPHIA — In an effort to advance the School District of Philadelphia’s vision for all children to have a great school close to where they live, the District is announcing a multi-year Comprehensive School Planning Review (CSPR)…

PHILADELPHIA — Sixty teachers from The School District of Philadelphia have received the annual Lindback Award for Distinguished Public Teachers. “Today we celebrate excellence in teaching and the amazing educators who serve our students each and every day,” said Dr. William R. Hite, superintendent. “This award is a testament to their hard work, leadership and…

To celebrate the graduating class of 2019, the District is launching a campaign called Our Class Our Future. Visit https://www.philasd.org/graduation to hear our graduating seniors sharing their favorite SDP moments and future plans and look for the campaign around the city in the coming weeks. We invite you to join the campaign and congratulate the graduating class…

Dr. William R. Hite, superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, was joined by City Council President Darrell Clarke, Mayor Jim Kenney and community members at Edward Gideon Elementary School Friday for the grand opening of The Clinic at Gideon. The Clinic provides primary and preventive care, behavioral healthcare and a comprehensive range of services…

PHILADELPHIA — For the sixth consecutive year, the School District of Philadelphia is offering a District-wide survey to capture responses from students, parents and guardians, teachers, and principals. The survey collects feedback from Philadelphia’s diverse school communities on five key topics related to school improvement—climate, instruction, leadership, professional capacity, and parent/guardian-community ties. Survey results are…

PHILADELPHIA — Dawn Staley, a graduate of Murrell Dobbins CTE High School and coach of the NCAA-championship-winning University of South Carolina women’s basketball team, served as keynote speaker at the School District of Philadelphia’s fifth annual #ReachHigher College Signing Day (CSD) event today, Wednesday, May 1 at the Liacouras Center at Temple University. Each year,…

PHILADELPHIA — Seven principals from The School District of Philadelphia have received the annual Lindback Award for Distinguished Principal Leadership. The award is allocated by the Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation, and recognizes principals who have made significant leadership and humanitarian contributions to their schools and communities. The 2019 recipients are: April Brown,…

PHILADELPHIA — The Board of Education yesterday approved a resolution adopting the $3.36 billion Lump Sum Budget for the School District of Philadelphia for Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20). The budget plan enhances previous investments made in areas such as early literacy and college and career readiness, and supports additional priorities to further improve academic outcomes…

District making improvements in college and career readiness, early literacy, staffing and fiscal stability for third consecutive year PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia’s update around its Action Plan 3.0 released today shows three consecutive years of improvement for city schools, including increasing graduation and early literacy rates, greater fiscal stability and enhanced classroom…

The School District of Philadelphia is honoring Women’s “Herstory” Month by highlighting women from Philadelphia who have made a difference in the areas of education, arts and entertainment, public service, and business and health. Each week, the District will focus on a different set of women on its social media platforms. Check out #PHLHerstory and…

PHILADELPHIA – Governor Tom Wolf has announced the School District of Philadelphia is receiving $577,000 in PAsmart grants, designed to bolster STEM and computer science opportunities, apprenticeship and job training across the Commonwealth to prepare students and workers with the necessary skills to be successful in today’s workforce. PAsmart is the statewide initiative unveiled last…

PHILADELPHIA – In recognition of Black History Month, The School District of Philadelphia is hosting its annual art exhibit in the Education Center’s Second Floor Gallery. The public was also invited to an opening reception and artist meet and greet held on Thursday, February 7, at the Education Center. Ten Philadelphia-based artists, including one student…

PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia celebrated three consecutive years of improvement among both District-led and charter schools. Results released today from the 2017-2018 School Progress Report (SPR) show that the average Overall SPR score for citywide schools increased nine points from 33 percent in 2014-2015 to 42 percent in 2017-2018. Mayor Jim Kenney…

PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia launched its “Thrive At Five” campaign to promote kindergarten registration for the 2019-2020 school year. Parents and guardians can now register a child who will be five years old on or before September 1, 2019 at the child’s neighborhood school. Registration is open until May 31, 2019. Because…

PHILADELPHIA — Bache-Martin Elementary School celebrated the re-opening of its library on Monday, January 14.  Thanks to donations and the efforts of Friends of Bache-Martin, the school has raised over $90,000 for books, Chromebooks, furniture, supplies, and a part-time library coordinator, and has amassed a collection of over 10,000 fiction and nonfiction volumes.  

Families Encouraged to Complete Applications by February 28 PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia is encouraging all eligible families to enroll their students in pre-Kindergarten for the 2019-2020 school year. The District is now accepting applications for the full-day, free program. “Providing our students a quality early childhood education is key to unlocking their…

District’s credit outlook also set to “stable” PHILADELPHIA – Moody’s Investor Services upgraded the School District of Philadelphia’s underlying bond rating by two notches to Baa3. This is the first time Moody’s has assigned an Investment Grade rating for the School District since 1977. Moody’s also set the School District’s outlook to “Stable.” The Moody’s…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia is once again partnering with The Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation to honor exemplary Philadelphia public school teachers and principals, continuing an annual tradition that has awarded more than $3 million in total grants to deserving educators throughout the city. The Foundation will honor 60 outstanding…

PHILADELPHIA — The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) today released its list of schools that qualify for additional support under the state’s new school accountability framework. The School District of Philadelphia (SDP) has 43 schools identified for Comprehensive Support and Improvement (CSI) and 17 schools identified for Additional Targeted Support and Improvement (A-TSI). CSI and…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia has opened its teacher application process for the 2019-2020 school year, almost two months earlier than in previous years. “This continues to be an exciting time to be a teacher in Philadelphia’s public schools,” said Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent. “We are seeing progress in climate and achievement…

PHILADELPHIA — Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of The School District of Philadelphia, joined with Council President Darrell L. Clarke on Monday, December 10 to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the new, upgraded playground at Tanner Duckrey Elementary School in North Philadelphia. “All students, no matter where they live or attend school, deserve to have safe,…

Throughout 2018, the District’s Operations staff have been working to accelerate school improvement projects to ensure safe, healthy, and welcoming environments for students and staff. To keep parents and school communities updated on the projects and improvements taking place at their schools, the District released seven reports throughout the summer and fall detailing the work…

Projects featured include lead paint and plaster stabilization, asbestos abatement PHILADELPHIA — During the Board of Education’s latest Finance and Facilities Committee meeting on Thursday, December 6, the School District of Philadelphia highlighted the work it has completed in schools across the city, in addition to its upcoming project plans, to ensure the health and…

Weeklong celebration to showcase robust digital curriculum offered across the District PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia is celebrating its 7th annual Computer Science Education Week with a roster of activities, including highlighting the District’s strategic investments in educational technology in recent years, STEM-related activities for students, and networking and professional development opportunities for…

To celebrate #GivingTuesday today, Nov. 27, students from the Masterman High School choir performed at the District’s Education Center at 440 N. Broad St. The performance aligned with this year’s #GivingTuesday theme for The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia with support from Radio One: #PhillyInHarmony. The goal this year was to raise funds…

On Friday, November 16, 2018, the School District of Philadelphia issued the following statement regarding the Educational Opportunities for Families report: “Families value the many school options offered in Philadelphia and school choice is one of our city’s strengths.  The report, and the information we’ve independently collected, shows that all families and students want to know…

As a Local Education Agency (LEA) within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, The School District of Philadelphia (SDP), is required to complete a District Comprehensive Planning process every three years. The format, structure, and guiding questions of the process and resulting plan are governed by state-level interpretation of Federal law. SDP’s plan is due to the…

District student PSSA and Keystone improvements outpace state level increases PHILADELPHIA – Scores from the 2017-2018 Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) and Keystone Exams show School District of Philadelphia students making continued academic progress. Large gains were made on the PSSA, with a significant number of students moving out of the below-basic category on…

Parents, staff and community can weigh in on priorities PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia is beginning the process of developing the Academic Calendar for SY 19-20 and 20-21, and is asking for feedback from families and staff to help guide the decisions that will go into making the schedule final. The short, 4-question…

PHILADELPHIA – In an effort to enhance school safety and security at schools throughout the city, the School District of Philadelphia has submitted an application to the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) for nearly $6 million in grants providing for equipment and professional development for staff. “We are very appreciative that the state…

Students address candidates less than one month before Election Day PHILADELPHIA – What would elementary school children ask Pennsylvania’s Gubernatorial candidates if they had the chance? Students from the across the School District of Philadelphia and the Commonwealth were given the opportunity to submit questions for the Democratic and Republican Gubernatorial candidates to answer at…

Superintendent, Mayor and School Communities celebrate being honored by the U.S. Dept. of Education PHILADELPHIA — The U.S. Department of Education recognized two schools within the School District of Philadelphia as National Blue Ribbon Schools: Albert M. Greenfield and William M. Meredith elementary schools. “The School District of Philadelphia congratulates both Greenfield and Meredith schools…

Already impacting 22 schools, the Coalition seeks $75,000 additional annual funding to increase reach to more schools across Philadelphia PHILADELPHIA — Dr. William Hite, Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, joined with Philadelphia elected officials, philanthropic leaders and educators to help publicly unveil the Philadelphia Robotics Coalition and its $75,000 fundraising campaign to make…

As School Selection begins for the 2019-2020 School Year, students and families can explore various educational options PHILADELPHIA — School District of Philadelphia officials announced to families, students and community members that the K-12 School Selection Process for the 2019-2020 school year starts on Friday, September 21, and runs through 5 p.m. Friday, November 2….

PHILADELPHIA — The Board of Education has selected two non-voting Student Representatives who will serve in an advisory capacity to represent the interests of students in Philadelphia. The selected students are Alfredo Praticò, a senior at Masterman High School and Julia Frank, a senior at Northeast High School. “We have been anxiously awaiting this huge…

PHILADELPHIA—The School District of Philadelphia’s application process for new charter schools opened today, Monday, September 17. Applications are due Thursday, November 15, 2018 by 5 p.m. The application process is only for new charter schools. Interested operators can access the application and other new charter application content online through the Charter Schools Office webpage on…

PHILADELPHIA — The Academy at Palumbo School was impacted by flooding from heavy rains over the weekend. School was dismissed at 1 p.m. This morning students were relocated to parts of the building that were not impacted, like the auditorium, and alternate arrangements were made where appropriate for breakfast and lunch. Several classrooms, hallways and…

The District’s operations staff have been working to accelerate school improvement projects to ensure safe, healthy, and welcoming environments for students and staff. To keep parents and school communities updated on the projects and improvements taking place at their schools, the District released bi-weekly reports throughout the summer and will transition to quarterly updates in…

PHILADELPHIA —  All School District of Philadelphia schools will dismiss students at noon Thursday, September 6, 2018 due to continued high temperatures. All after-school activities including all athletic programs and professional development sessions scheduled for Thursday are canceled. The general public and media are urged to monitor the District website at www.philasd.org, the District’s Facebook…

PHILADELPHIA —  All School District of Philadelphia schools will dismiss students at noon Wednesday, September 5, 2018 due to continued high temperatures. All after-school activities including all athletic programs and professional development sessions scheduled for Wednesday are canceled. The general public and media are urged to monitor the District website at www.philasd.org, the District’s Facebook…

PHILADELPHIA— On, Wednesday, August 29, rapper Meek Mill and Dream Chasers announced their donations of more than 6,000 backpacks to 12 schools throughout the School District of Philadelphia. The announcement took place at Mill’s alma mater, James G. Blaine Elementary School, where he personally handed out backpacks to students. “Growing up in Philly, I’ve watched…

PHILADELPHIA – As part of its System of Great Schools (SGS) program, the School District of Philadelphia has identified three elementary schools that will be prioritized for investment and academic improvement in the upcoming school year. The schools include the following: Avery D. Harrington Elementary School (K-8), 5300 Baltimore Avenue Robert E. Lamberton Elementary School…

All School District of Philadelphia schools will dismiss students at 1 p.m. Thursday, August 30th. All after-school activities including all athletic programs and professional development sessions scheduled for Thursday are canceled. Temperatures are forecasted to be above 90 degrees again tomorrow, the fourth day in a row of above 90 degree temperatures. As heat builds…

PHILADELPHIA — Due to the high temperatures forecasted, all School District of Philadelphia schools will dismiss students at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, August 28 and Wednesday, August 29.  School-based employees are expected to work their normal work day and Administrative Offices will operate on regular business hours.  All after-school activities including all athletic programs and…

School year marks first time students in all grades begin on same day PHILADELPHIA – School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Dr. William R. Hite, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, Principal Ariel Lajara, City Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, students and families helped to #RingTheBellPHL and celebrated the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year with the traditional bell-ringing at…

More than 1,200 District staff and contractors prepared buildings over the summer PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia is gearing up to #RingTheBellPHL and welcome all students back to school on Monday, August 27, after an extensive schedule of work over the summer to help improve the safety and environmental conditions of school buildings….

The District’s operations staff have been working throughout the summer to accelerate school improvement projects to ensure safe, healthy, and welcoming environments for students and staff when school starts on August 27th. To keep parents and school communities updated on the projects and improvements taking place at their schools, the District is releasing progress reports…

First day of school for students in all grades is Monday, Aug. 27 PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia today teamed up with the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park to remind families and students that school starts for all grades on Monday, August 27, and to officially unveil its #RingTheBellPHL campaign. “We want…

The District’s operations staff are working throughout the summer to accelerate school improvement projects to ensure safe, healthy, and welcoming environments for students and staff when school starts on August 27th. To keep parents and school communities updated on the projects and improvements taking place at their schools, the District is releasing progress reports every…

Fourteen NEHS Alumni are first in District to graduate with AP Capstone distinction PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia  celebrated the first student graduates of Northeast High School’s Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone program, a rigorous, two-year diploma program designed to prepare students for college and career by developing their critical thinking, collaboration, time management…

PHILADELPHIA – On Monday, July 30th, The School District of Philadelphia is launching its annual Special Registration and Assessment for students who speak a language other than English. Families will be given assistance to complete the new student registration process at the District’s Multilingual Assessment Center (MAC). Staff will be available to walk parents through…

The District’s operations staff are working throughout the summer to accelerate school improvement projects to ensure safe, healthy, and welcoming environments for students and staff when school starts on August 27th. To keep parents and school communities updated on the projects and improvements taking place at their schools, the District is releasing progress reports every…

PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia today broke ground on a new, $1 million state-of-the-art Livestock Center at W. B. Saul High School, the only school in the state dedicated to agriculture and food science, horticulture, animal science and natural resource management. “Saul High School has long provided unique opportunities for our students interested…

PHILADELPHIA — The Board of Education announced today which members will serve on the Board’s proposed committees. The Board introduced the proposed committee structure at its public meeting on July 9, and during the meeting Board members expressed their interest in serving as a member or chair of the committees. Board President Joyce Wilkerson made…

The District’s operations staff are working throughout the summer to accelerate school improvement projects to ensure safe, healthy, and welcoming environments for students and staff when school starts on August 27th. To keep parents and school communities updated on the projects and improvements taking place at their schools, the District is releasing progress reports every…

PHILADELPHIA — The new Board of Education held its first public meeting on July 9, 2018, followed by a meet and greet with attendees. The primary purpose of the meeting was to create a board structure. During the meeting, board members elected Joyce Wilkerson as Board President, and Wayne Walker as Board Vice President.  The…

PHILADELPHIA – On June 29, Governor Tom Wolf, Mayor Jim Kenney, members of Philadelphia’s legislative delegation and School District of Philadelphia leaders visited Roosevelt Elementary School to announce $15.6 million in joint funding for lead, mold and asbestos removal at 57 school buildings. “The safety of our children should always be a priority and our…

The Board of Education will include a non-voting student representative that serves in an advisory capacity to represent the interests of students in Philadelphia. Student applicants must be a resident of the City of Philadelphia and attend a Philadelphia public school. They must also be in 11th or 12th grade during their term as student…

The District’s operations staff are working throughout the summer to accelerate school improvement projects to ensure safe, healthy, and welcoming environments for students and staff when school starts on August 27th. To keep parents and school communities updated of the projects and improvements taking place at their schools, the District is releasing progress reports every…

PHILADELPHIA—Today, the School Reform Commission (SRC) of The School District of Philadelphia announced the completion of the Superintendent’s Performance Evaluation for the 2017-2018 school year for Superintendent William R. Hite, Jr. The SRC evaluation included the following statement: “We commend Dr. Hite for his exceptional leadership of the School District of Philadelphia. Under Dr. Hite’s…

PHILADELPHIA — The Board of Education for the School District of Philadelphia will hold its first public meeting on Monday, July 9th at 5 p.m.  The meeting will take place in the auditorium (2nd floor) of the School District of Philadelphia’s Education Center at 440 N. Broad Street. During the meeting, members will elect officers…

PHILADELPHIA — As Philadelphia City Council passed a budget Thursday, Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, and Uri Monson, Chief Financial Officer, issued the following statements. Dr. Hite: “The budget passed by City Council and signed by the Mayor provides a majority of the funding that was in the Mayor’s initial proposal…

PHILADELPHIA — As the final School Reform Commission Action meeting comes to a close, with  the local Board of Education scheduled to assume governance July 1, Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, SRC Chair Estelle Richman, and Bill Green, SRC Commissioner, are issuing the following statements. Dr. Hite: “I would…

Projects underway in 46 buildings will improve conditions for more than 26,000 students PHILADELPHIA – “Nothing is more important than the health and safety of our students,” said Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent. “When our students are excited to come to school because their classrooms are modern, clean spaces, they are best poised for success.”…

Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary School was nationally featured on NBC News on Saturday, June 16, 2018.  The story focuses on the number of Black male educators at Bethune School compared to the national average.  Bethune School has 13 African-American male educators which is nearly 30 percent of the staff ; the national average is 2 percent….

PHILADELPHIA — As the 2017-2018 school year ends, The School District of Philadelphia has distributed free books to approximately 37,000 pre-kindergarten through second grade students across the District in an effort to encourage summer reading. “Children who read during the summer months keep their skills sharp and will be better prepared when school reopens for…

During the celebrations of our 2018 high school graduations, we will have three graduating seniors (Tamir Harper, Shania Bennett, and Anthony Rivera) takeover our Instagram  stories from June 8th to June 12th.  Follow us on Instagram(@philly_schools) to see three of our graduations from a student’s perspective. Continue reading to learn more about our graduating seniors…

 

New school in northeast Philadelphia to open in 2020 and prioritize learning, health and sustainability PHILADELPHIA – Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent; Mayor Jim Kenney; City Councilman Bobby Henon; and other invited guests today joined together at Solis-Cohen Elementary School in northeast Philadelphia to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new, environmentally-friendly elementary school to be…

PHILADELPHIA – In solidarity with Mayor Jim Kenney and the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT), Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, highlighted the need for the adoption of the Mayor’s entire school funding proposal during a visit to Woodrow Wilson Middle School in northeast Philadelphia. The visit came just weeks…

Event to feature family-focused workshops on reading, health, and safety, resource fair to help families prepare for the summer break, and FACE Awards Ceremony PHILADELPHIA — On  June 1, The School District of Philadelphia’s Office of Family and Community Engagement will host its annual End-of-Year Family Celebration, an event that functions both as a way…

PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia has announced a plan to accelerate and expand critical investments within its capital program, which would become reality if Mayor Jim Kenney’s entire school funding proposal for Fiscal Year 2019 is adopted. “The health and safety of our students is fundamental, and must be a basic expectation when…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia will offer extended hours at its Education Center the week of May 14 for families to enroll their children in school-based, full-day, free pre-Kindergarten for the 2018-2019 school year. “Providing our students a quality early childhood education is key to unlocking their potential later in life,” said Dr….

PHILADELPHIA — On Wednesday, May 9, Dr. William R. Hite and several School District of Philadelphia students appeared before City Council to discuss school funding. Dr. Hite yielded his time to student Alfredo Pratico, whose testimony can be read here. Dr. Hite submitted his testimony for the record. It can be read by clicking here,…

PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia celebrated the beginning of Kindergarten Open House Week with a celebration with Mayor Jim Kenney, Assistant Superintendent Deb Carrera, Principal Kimberly Newman, teachers, parents and kindergarten students at Chester Arthur Elementary School. “Enrolling in kindergarten on-time so that students are ready to learn their first day of school…

8,000 high school seniors celebrate heading to college with A-list celebrities PHILADELPHIA — Former First Lady Michelle Obama served as keynote speaker at The School District of Philadelphia’s annual #ReachHigher College Signing Day (CSD) event at the Liacouras Center at Temple University. Each year, CSD celebrates high school seniors choosing to pursue higher education at…

Program seeks to grow to 18 new Apprentices in only its second year PHILADELPHIA — Mayor Jim Kenney joined the School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Dr. William R. Hite to announce an expansion of the District’s Maintenance Apprenticeship Program. In just its first year, the program addresses the District’s need to attract, retain, and develop…

Upgrades to include new synthetic turf field, rubberized track and field and grandstand renovations PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia broke ground on a new, $3 million athletic field complex at Bartram High School that will provide students and community members in southwest Philadelphia a safe, sustainable and upgraded place to play and exercise…

Initiative Now Recognized at Federal, State and Local Levels PHILADELPHIA — On Monday, April 23, The School District of Philadelphia celebrated receiving the Environmental Excellence Award from Governor Tom Wolf’s administration for the District’s GreenFutures Sustainability Program. Monday’s event took place at Benjamin Franklin High School where there is a solar Career Technical Education program,…

PHILADELPHIA — Every year the School District of Philadelphia publishes two budget books annually for the public and District stakeholders: a School Budget book and a Consolidated Budget Book. The books have been posted online, the earliest they have been made available, and for the first time prior to the public Budget hearing, which is…

PHILADELPHIA — A press conference was held at the School District of Philadelphia Education Center on April 10, 2018, to discuss the details of this year’s College Signing Day (CSD). College Signing Day celebrates high school seniors choosing to pursue higher education at a professional training program, a community college, a four-year college or university,…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia announced the expansion of its early literacy pilot program to provide modernized classrooms and materials to pre-Kindergarten through third grade students at 11 additional schools in the 2018-2019 school year. The announcement was made in west Philadelphia at Alain Locke Elementary School, one of the eight schools currently…

PHILADELPHIA — School Reform Commission (SRC) Chair Joyce Wilkerson and fellow SRC Commissioner Dr. Christopher McGinley have submitted resignation letters to Mayor Jim Kenney.   Governor Wolf has named current SRC Commissioner Estelle Richman to serve as Chair of the School Reform Commission. “I want to thank Joyce and Chris for their service and I am…

PHILADELPHIA — Nearly sixty teachers from The School District of Philadelphia have received the annual Lindback Award for Distinguished Public Teachers. “These award-winning teachers go above and beyond to support students both inside and outside the classroom,” said Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of The School District of Philadelphia. “Their leadership, commitment and persistence make…

Philadelphia – Today, the School Reform Commission (SRC) approved a resolution adopting the $3.15 billion Lump Sum Budget for the School District of Philadelphia for Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19).  After years of financial challenges the School District of Philadelphia under Mayor Kenney’s school funding proposal will see balanced budgets through 2023 instead of a $900…

PHILADELPHIA — In an effort to better engage parents through technology and to help school staff members and families more effectively communicate, the School District of Philadelphia launched its updated Parent & Family Portal. The online platform gives parents and guardians improved access to student schedules, attendance, assignments, grades, immunizations and contact information. “We know…

The following letter was sent home to students and families on behalf of Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of The School District of Philadelphia, regarding the nationwide student walkout on March 14:   “March 6, 2018 Dear Parents and Guardians: In light of the most recent school shooting tragedy in Florida, students across the nation…

PHILADELPHIA —  Due to the inclement weather, all School District of Philadelphia schools will open tomorrow, Thursday, March 8, 2018 on a two-hour delay.  All buses will operate on a delayed schedule pushing morning pick up times back by two hours. We ask that parents and caregivers be patient as certain yellow bus routes may…

PHILADELPHIA — Seven principals from The School District of Philadelphia have received the annual Lindback Award for Distinguished Principal Leadership. The 2018 recipients are: Dywonne Davis-Harris, Potter-Thomas Elementary School; Dr. Ted Domers, G.W. Carver High School of Engineering and Science; Jodan Floyd, AMY Northwest Middle School; John Piniat, Feltonville School of Arts and Sciences; Deana…

Families Encouraged to Complete Applications by February 28 PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia will offer extended hours at its Education Center for families to enroll their children in school-based, full-day, free pre-Kindergarten for the 2018-2019 school year. “Providing our students a quality early childhood education is key to unlocking their potential later in…

Students from across Philadelphia study Black Culture and Showcase their Talents PHILADELPHIA — This February all across the School District of Philadelphia students are celebrating Black History Month. Part of the aim of the month is to recognize significant contributions black people have made to America and the world throughout history. There are several opportunities…

PHILADELPHIA — The following is the official statement from Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of The School District of Philadelphia regarding the Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles Parade. “The excitement of the Eagles first Super Bowl victory is a once in a lifetime event. For this reason we have decided to give our students, teachers…

PHILADELPHIA — The School Reform Commission (SRC) will hold a special meeting to consider seven new charter applications on February 22nd at 4 p.m. The meeting will take place at the School District of Philadelphia building, in the auditorium. The SRC will allow time for the public to speak before the vote. Individuals hoping to…

District releases annual School Progress Report showing second consecutive year of progress with 164 Philadelphia public schools increasing their SPR scores and positive growth in the city’s lowest performing schools PHILADELPHIA—On Monday, January 28th, at an awards ceremony at Potter Thomas Elementary, the School District of Philadelphia recognized 22 schools for high achievement on the…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia has opened its teacher and school counselor application process for the 2018-2019 school year, over a month earlier than last year. “This is a great time to be a teacher or counselor in Philadelphia’s public schools. Not only is there tremendous momentum and progress taking place in our…

PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia today opened kindergarten registration for the 2018-19 school year for children who will be 5 years old on or before September 1, 2018. “Enrollment in kindergarten is one of the first steps parents can take in setting their children up for long-term success,” said Dr. William R. Hite,…

Initiative allows high school students to enroll in choice of college courses PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia on Wednesday, January 10th, joined with La Salle University to announce a partnership through which high-achieving high school students will be enrolled in college courses during this spring 2018 semester. They will take their first class…

Francis Scott Key Elementary a stellar example of positive impacts of the program PHILADELPHIA —  On Tuesday, January 9, Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of The School District of Philadelphia, Councilwoman Helen Gym, Councilman Mark Squilla and other officials visited Francis Scott Key Elementary School to mark increased participation in its breakfast program and how…

Social Media Initiative Encourages Adults to Share Tips About Getting Students to School On Time Each Day  PHILADELPHIA — Following solid gains in student attendance in schools across the city, The School District of Philadelphia is joining with Read by 4th and iHeartMedia to encourage families and students to continue this positive trend to ensure…

The Kids In Need Foundation Donates 25,000 Backpacks Across the District PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia, in partnership with The Kids In Need Foundation, today helped surprise approximately 400 students at Commodore John Barry Elementary School with new backpacks and school supplies, just in time for the winter break. The event was part…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia is once again partnering with The Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation to honor exemplary Philadelphia public school teachers and principals, continuing an annual tradition that has awarded over $3 million in total grants to deserving educators throughout the city. For the eleventh consecutive year, the Foundation…

School District Marks Computer Science Education Week Weeklong celebration to showcase robust digital curriculum offered across the District PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia is celebrating its 6th annual Computer Science Education Week with a roster of activities highlighting the District’s expanding digital literacy curriculum and other district-wide activities, including coding. “Computer Science Education…

Roster of activities highlights volunteers, donors supporting schools  PHILADELPHIA – Expanding on the popular #GivingTuesday movement The School District of Philadelphia, in partnership with the Fund for the School District of Philadelphia, has kicked off its first annual Giving Week to highlight the exciting ways individuals, businesses, nonprofits and families are making a difference in…

PHILADELPHIA — Tonight the School Reform Commission voted to begin a process that will end with a new locally appointed Board of Education in place by July 1, 2018.  The School Reform Commission was created in 2001 as a temporary form of governance for the School District of Philadelphia. “As I have said before, there…

Superintendent Dr. William Hite Statement Chair Joyce Wilkerson Statement Commissioner Bill Green Statement Commissioner Dr. Christopher McGinley Statement

Hard Work Keeps Paying Off – Progress and Momentum of the School District of Philadelphia Continues Philadelphia – At a pep rally at Lincoln High School, the School District of Philadelphia celebrated an increase in their graduation rate for the third consecutive year.  This comes on the heels of the District’s increases in PSSA/Keystones announced…

PHILADELPHIA — School District of Philadelphia officials today reminded families, students and community members that the K-12 School Selection Process for the 2018-2019 school year ends at 5 p.m. Monday, November 13. This is an important deadline for all students in any grade looking to change schools for the upcoming academic year, including 8th graders…

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…

Philly FUNDamentals, a new web-based platform, allows donors to give directly to a school and project of their choice PHILADELPHIA—The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia (the Fund) is proud to launch Philly FUNDamentals, an innovative web-based giving platform that seeks to strengthen all Philadelphia public schools. The School District of Philadelphia is one…

Superintendent Hite joined by City Councilors Blackwell, Parker, Sánchez and Gym, and Immigrant Student Advocates tour Woodrow Wilson Middle School and observe English language learner classes PHILADELPHIA – Dr. William Hite, Superintendent of The School District of Philadelphia, joined City Council leaders and Immigrant Student Advocates at Woodrow Wilson Middle School to celebrate expanded English…

Student-focused Arts & Creativity Framework aims to significantly bolster arts resources and curriculum   PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia unveiled its new multi-phased Arts & Creativity Framework, which establishes a path forward for a comprehensive redesign of arts education in the City.  Supported by the Neubauer Family Foundation, the Framework was developed from 16…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia is again providing free access and opportunity for 38,365 District high school students to take the SAT, Practice SAT (PSAT)/National Merit Qualifying Test, and PSAT 8/9. “Anchor Goal 1 is about ensuring all children graduate ready for a career or college.  By making the PSAT/SAT and other key…

Month-long events highlight importance of familial involvement in education PHILADELPHIA — On Monday, October 3, The School District of Philadelphia announced a series of family-friendly programming and events to celebrate Family Engagement Month for the first time throughout October, including a conversation about the importance of community engagement in our schools with actor, author and…

State PSSA and Keystone results show more School District of Philadelphia students from elementary through high school are achieving – especially in the area of literacy. On October 3, 2017, Superintendent Dr. William R. Hite lead a pep rally celebration with students, teachers, staff and elected officials at the Morton McMichael School. The pep rally…

Superintendent, Mayor, City Officials and School Community celebrate being one of 342 schools nationwide to be honored by the U.S. Dept. of Education PHILADELPHIA​ ​— General George A. McCall Elementary School has been recognized for the first time as a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Established in 1982, the award…

Philadelphia – Results from the 2016-2017 Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) and Keystone exams, released today by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, show steady—and in some areas significant—gains in student academic performance across the School District of Philadelphia. These student achievements are another indication of the District’s progress and positive momentum in the new…

PHILADELPHIA — Today the School District of Philadelphia joined with the Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) to celebrate the opening of Vaux Big Picture High School, one of the City’s newest college preparatory schools and part of PHA’s Choice Neighborhood Transformation Plan for the Sharswood neighborhood. “Vaux Big Picture represents our continued efforts to bring high…

Philadelphia –  Every year the School District of Philadelphia reviews the performance of all schools to determine which are most in need of additional investments and interventions in order to improve outcomes for students. Today the School District of Philadelphia announced a series of school community engagement meetings and school quality reviews for six schools…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia launched a new initiative focused on improving student attendance for the 2017-2018 school year, #AttendanceHero. Superintendent Dr. William R. Hite joined Mayor Jim Kenney, members of City Council, area radio station representatives, the Philadelphia 76ers, and nearly 60 fourth grade students at John F. Hartranft School to celebrate…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia received more positive news this time from Moody’s Investor Services.  Today Moody’s upgraded for the first time since 2010 the School District’s Bond rating, increasing the rating to Ba2 from the current Ba3.  Moody’s cited  “structural balance and operating surpluses” along with strong management control of finances. The…

Students, principals, teachers, and families celebrated the first day of the 2017-2018 school year throughout The School District of Philadelphia on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2017. Superintendent Dr. William R. Hite,  Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney and 30 second graders marked the first day of the 2017-2018 school year with the traditional bell-ringing ceremony at Joseph Pennell Elementary…

PHILADELPHIA — The School Reform Commission of The School District of Philadelphia on Wednesday voted to approve a measure that would provide social workers for 22 public schools for the 2017-2018 school year, thanks to a new pilot program designed to improve and expand behavioral health services for students. The Philadelphia Support Team for Education…

PHILADELPHIA — The School District of Philadelphia on Wednesday unveiled its Exemplary Teaching Video Library, an online tool for teachers, principals and central office staff featuring videos with District teachers designed to provide examples of best teaching practices. “We are at our best as educators when we collaborate, share and learn from one another, which is…

PHILADELPHIA –  In preparation for the 2017-2018 school year, Dr. William R. Hite, Superintendent of The School District of Philadelphia, toured Allen M. Stearne Elementary’s newly modernized kindergarten, first and second grade classrooms on Thursday. Stearne Elementary is one eight district schools receiving this investment this school year and the PreK to 2nd grade classrooms…

First major website update in 10 years, district-wide project to finish in Spring of 2018 PHILADELPHIA – The School District of Philadelphia (SDP) unveiled a redesigned and modernized www.PhilaSD.org.  The District’s website update, the first since 2007, will happen in phases, and represents a soft launch with work continuing on www.PhilaSD.org through the Spring of…

The 9th Annual Back 2 School Event was a huge success at School of the Future.  Parents and students enjoyed information sessions, entertainment, free bookbags and supplies, giveaways and more. View and enjoy photos from the event on our Facebook page.  

There’s still time to register your student for pre-Kindergarten or Kindergarten for the 2017-2018 school year! Families can enroll their children in school-based, full-day, free pre-Kindergarten at the District’s Pre-K Office in the Education Center at 440 N. Broad St. in Philadelphia. To be eligible, children must be at least 3 years old on or…

State immunization requirements for the 2017-2018 school year have changed.  If your child isn’t up-to-date when school starts, they’ll now have 5 days to get the next dose of the vaccine that they need, and provide a medical plan to get up-to-date. Vaccines are required on the first day of school.   Some of the…

From August 7th through August 25, the District’s Multilingual Assessment Center will hold new student registration for immigrant families or families with student(s) who speak a language other than English. The Multilingual staff will be available to walk parents through the registration process, screen students in need of ESOL services and provide resources about The…

Students attending The School District of Philadelphia’s new Parkway Center City Middle College this fall began the first step in their high school careers with the opening of the Summer Bridge program at the Community College of Philadelphia. This program allows incoming freshmen at the Middle College to begin to earn college credit before taking their…

The U.S. Department of Education has announced that The School District of Philadelphia is among the 2017 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools District Sustainability Awardees. The District is just one of nine school districts nationwide to receive such recognition. The District was nominated for the award by Pennsylvania Department of Education Secretary Pedro…