
Stephen Williams is a WHYY News education reporter. He has been a local news reporter for more than two decades and has helped audiences understand complex stories about education, transportation, labor and small business, to name some beats. He has formerly worked at The Philadelphia Tribune, The New Observer, The Hartford Courant and The Lexington Herald-Leader.
More from the Contributor
The principal at Dobbins High is an alum, and spoke movingly of the school’s “strong legacy.”
1 week ago
Teachers union ratifies 3-year deal with Philadelphia school district
The contract proposal, approved by 70% of members, included a 3% pay hike, $1,400 bonus and improved working conditions.
2 weeks ago
Listen 1:07The move from a “paramilitary mindset” to a more service-oriented model is the goal of a five-year strategic plan, Commissioner Kevin Bethel said.
2 weeks ago
Philadelphia School District, teachers union reach agreement on first day of school
On a day when a first round of SEPTA cuts made getting to school a challenge for some, the district and teachers union celebrated a three-year deal.
2 weeks ago
The city school district and local colleges are making plans to help students and staff navigate SEPTA’s looming service cuts.
3 weeks ago
Listen 1:20Philadelphia teachers will be present for first day of school, but September walkout looms
The teachers union and school district have made progress on some issues, but the union head said teachers are prepared to walk if a deal isn’t reached.
4 weeks ago
Listen 1:07Study spells out impact of Pennsylvania private, independent colleges on their communities
The state’s independent, private colleges contributed more than $29 billion to local communities in 2024, according to a report they commissioned.
4 weeks ago
The city teachers union said it is prepared to strike as the two sides continue to negotiate a new contract.
1 month ago
Pennsylvania universities cutting costs through layoffs, mergers to meet financial challenge
The belt-tightening follows drops in the number of college-age students, federal fund cuts and higher costs. Ten universities have closed or merged since 2016.
1 month ago
Listen 1:39Drexel’s Biomed Summer Academy attracts high schoolers interested in STEM careers
The four-week program provides interactive learning about the frontiers of biomedical research.
1 month ago
Listen 1:34Penn’s lawsuit against drugmakers joins hundreds of similar accusations. The defendants insist the charges are without merit.
2 months ago
Listen 1:32