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4w ago

Philadelphia Schools Delay Facilities Plan and Launch Survey as Closures Loom

Budget pressure from a projected deficit will shape a winter draft focused on excess seats.

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Overview

  • The district launched a new community survey and shifted release of a draft facilities plan to winter, signaling upcoming closures, co-locations, grade changes, and construction.
  • Officials said the draft will follow four themes: strengthening K–8 schools, reinvesting in neighborhood high schools, reducing student transitions, and expanding access to 5–12 pathways.
  • City Council set a January hearing to examine the facilities draft once it is made public.
  • Leaders detailed a $341 million FY2026 shortfall and a goal to erase the deficit by 2030, with austerity ahead and about $7.5 million owed in loan interest after the state budget delay.
  • Mayor Cherelle Parker backed repurposing underused school buildings, including potential housing for public servants and educators.