Coronavirus Philadelphia
Years later, Philly students still have not received compensatory services meant to address COVID learning loss
Just a tiny fraction of school districts nationwide now have masking mandates.
Parents disagree about the wisdom of the district’s approach to COVID for 2022-23.
The district also announced COVID protocols covering vaccinations and a “mask to stay” policy.
Children First shares recommendations for city about issues like child care and public health.
More Philadelphia child care providers opened in the second year of the pandemic than the first, but the city still saw a net loss of providers.
Officials cite health department guidance and impact on learning for the change in COVID policy.
But students and staff will have to wear masks the week after spring break as an “extra precaution.”
The teachers union has raised concerns about whether safety protocols are being followed in schools. President Jerry Jordan said he supports a “safe” reopening.
For many, this is the first time back into school buildings since COVID-19 closed buildings in March 2020.
About 11% of the city’s licensed providers closed during the pandemic — a lower rate than some state and national surveys suggested.
Simon Gratz High School one of three new mass vaccination sites
After federal mandate, Pennsylvania wants to allow districts to delay standardized testing until fall
Observers blame aging buildings and a history of distrust
Teachers union says district ‘made right decision’; still no word from mediator
Philadelphia students in prekindergarten to second grade are supposed to head back to classrooms the week of Feb. 22, two weeks after Mayor Jim Kenney unveiled a vaccination plan for teachers and school staff. This would be the first time students and teachers have returned physically to a classroom since March.
Philadelphia’s teachers might have to wait longer for the COVID-19 vaccine because other frontline workers need to come first and the city’s supply of the vaccine is limited.
Students with complex needs will get tested at regional centers, in advance of Philadelphia offering special education support and services.
Mayor, health commissioner are hopeful that in-person learning will resume this school year.