This article was originally published in The Notebook. In August 2020, The Notebook became Chalkbeat Philadelphia.
With the fate of the Philadelphia School District’s massive downsizing plan to be decided today, some are turning to Facebook and Twitter to create a testament to the fond memories and fierce devotion they have for the city’s public schools.
Using the dual hashtags #PhillyEducation and #UnderAttack, the Media Mobilizing Project is taking to social media to protest the District’s plan to close 29 schools, asking fellow opponents to share their cherished stories, photos, and for many, outright indignation.
Some posts start with old photos from former students accompanied by personal testimonials describing the importance of public schools in their development. Others have posted photos of their small children, expressing their worry over the future state of their city’s educational landscape.
Go to the #PhillyEducation is #UnderAttack Facebook page to read the testimonials.