Philadelphia teachers union pitches plan to repair school buildings not close them

Philadelphia's teacher's union has proposed an alternative to the district's plan to close 17 schools, which involves renovating the buildings instead. Union President Arthur Steinberg revealed the proposal, suggesting that the $25 million investment could improve the 17 schools slated for closure. This approach would provide families with assurance that the facilities will be upgraded, reducing the likelihood of them leaving for other schools and increasing hope for them to remain in their neighborhood schools.

District officials have stated that their facilities plan, approved by the Board of Education in April, aims to create more academic opportunities and address the city's declining enrollment. Many school buildings are either underutilized or require extensive repairs due to plumbing, asbestos, and lead paint issues. The district's total proposal costs $3 billion, covering renovations for nearly 170 buildings, but the union's proposal focuses only on the 17 schools.

Despite acknowledging the need for more support and funding, union leaders believe their proposal could address concerns raised by teachers, students, and City Council members who oppose the closures. However, the union's proposal does not address the remaining 200+ buildings the district is responsible for. Superintendent Tony Watlington has already initiated transition teams for the closing schools, and district officials remain firm in their stance, barring any intervention from the mayor.

Mayor Cherelle Parker, who appointed the Board of Education members who approved the closure plan, has not publicly expressed opposition. The urgency lies in the upcoming school selection process, which ends Nov. 24, potentially leading families to opt out of the district if closures proceed. The district requires $2 billion in funding through local, state, and federal sources, and is counting on securing that amount.

The union's proposal, however, does not detail a total cost beyond the first year of renovations. State funding could potentially become more accessible next year, following Democrats' gain of a trifecta in state government during the midterm elections. State Sen. Vince Hughes, a Democrat from Philly, emphasized that confronting the issue of school funding is crucial, comparing it to finding solutions rather than being fearful of potential costs.