Gym pushes for filling teacher vacancies to benefit Philly neighborhoods

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Philadelphia City Councilwoman Helen Gym opposed a measure meant to impose tough penalties for squatters, raising legal concerns with the bill. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

Philadelphia City Councilwoman Helen Gym opposed a measure meant to impose tough penalties for squatters, raising legal concerns with the bill. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

A Philadelphia councilwoman is calling for some serious thought about the city teacher shortage. 

Councilwoman Helen Gym said there must be a concerted effort to fill positions because they are the type of good jobs Philadelphia needs.“If a company were coming here saying they promised an average of $50,000 a year jobs … many of us would be doing everything possible to have that happen,” she said. “We can also do that today by trying to find out different ways to attract new teachers here making sure they can live in the communities in which they teach.”

People have to embrace the concept that schools are economic engines and drivers and that they can bring new life and vitality to their communities, Gym said.

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