New Report Reveals Dismal Conditions Within Philadelphia Schools

A report released Thursday highlights dismal conditions in Philadelphia’s schools, including overflowing classrooms, a lack of support professionals, broken HVAC systems and few supplies.

The report underscores the need for leaders to come up a solution for the ongoing issue of adequately funding the city’s schools, according to State Sen. Vincent Hughes, who released the report during a news conference Thursday.

The report cites numerous examples of an underfunded school system.

An entire sophomore class at one high school couldn’t take gym because there weren’t enough teachers, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. Principals are also reporting disciplinary issues due to the lack of support staff and parents are expressing safety concerns due to the absence of crossing guards at some busy intersections, according to the Inquirer.

Last week, Superintendent William R. Hite said schools would open on time in September but not without significant cuts to close an $81 million budget shortfall.

Hite and other lawmakers, including Hughes, are pushing state legislatures to swiftly enact the $2-per pack Philadelphia cigarette tax, which is expected to generate $49 million this year if implemented by Oct. 1.