Pennsylvania Education

Staff in Delaware County’s second-largest school district have been working without a contract since Sept. 1. The two sides are finally getting closer to a deal.

A perfect storm of circumstances, including the Pennsylvania budget impasse, has led to problems for the chronically underfunded school district in Delaware County.

The School District of Philadelphia’s Parent and Family University will provide civic engagement, financial literacy, and other resources for participating schools’ caregivers

Due to Pennsylvania’s budget impasse, the state “is not able to issue payments" for state or federal revenue sources, said the School District of Philadelphia’s CFO.

The process allows students to apply for any district school with available space for the 2026–2027 school year. There are more than 50 schools participating this year.

The higher education collaboration was sparked in part by “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” creator Rob McElhenney’s relationship with the Welsh city.

None of the schools that received Solar for Schools grants have told the state they’re pulling out due to federal tax credit rollbacks.

The principal at Dobbins High is an alum, and spoke movingly of the school’s “strong legacy.”

The contract proposal, approved by 70% of members, included a 3% pay hike, $1,400 bonus and improved working conditions.

“Providing safe environments for everyone … is always a top priority,” said Ken Gavin, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s chief communications officer.

Service will be restored on the 31, 84, 88 and six 400-level routes starting Tuesday. The city will use some of its SEPTA subsidy funds to restore them.

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.

The first day of the school year in Philadelphia coincides with less-frequent buses and shortened routes.

The board said it is not yet prepared to act on termination proceedings for Superintendent Steven Yanni and another administrator.

Whitney Jones said he wanted assurance economic benefit would be for the city and the school district, “so we’re not continuously signing our kids up for the short change.”