Education

The money helps centers continue to pay staff so they will be prepared to reopen. But it also pays for other needs, such as activity packets for children.

Reopening schools is considered key to getting the economy moving again. But some education officials say opening schools quickly would bring major risk and little reward.

Lauren Ballester is among the thousands of Pa. teachers trying to figure out online education. Her first week was an adventure of emotions.

In a grim and eye-opening budget meeting, district officials laid out the math facing Philly schools as COVID-19 ravages the nation’s economy.

Before the coronavirus pandemic, critics told Spotlight PA the investment could face challenges because the building has struggled to attract tenants.

Starting this week, the School District of Philadelphia’s 49 meal sites will only be distributing student meals once a week on Thursday mornings.

There’s a plan to distribute WiFi hotspots, but it hasn’t happened yet.

Any grades students receive can only improve their overall grades. Students will effectively not be penalized if they don’t complete assignments.

Advocates worry that school districts will begin offering limited support to special education students. They’re especially worried about families waiving their rights.

“We put this off as long as we possibly could,” said Superintendent Hite, announcing the cancellations.

Counselors say the shutdown creates new challenges for students, especially for those who must overcome financial and social hurdles to succeed.

The District is trying to plan a citywide virtual graduation, and maybe even a prom, the superintendent said.

The losses are the result of a system-wide shutdown in response to the coronavirus outbreak and primarily account for refunded room and board payments.

A full 50% of the grant must directly help students.

Philly’s largest college is bracing for financial chaos.