Philadelphia Schools Begin New Year with Major Changes

Superintendent Watlington introduces year-round schooling, new curriculum, and enhanced safety measures as 113,000 students return.

Year-round school pilot starts in 20 district and 5 charter schools, offering free extended-day programs.
New English Language Arts curriculum launched across all schools to standardize and improve learning materials.
District achieves 96% teacher fill rate, though 347 positions remain vacant, covered by substitutes or central staff.
Enhanced safety initiatives include new cameras, expanded Safe Path programs, and increased police presence.
Air-conditioning installed in 8 more schools, but 63 remain without adequate cooling systems.