Most Philly schools don’t have librarians, but some community members are filling the gaps

It’s the back to school season, and many students at Philadelphia public schools are back in the classroom interacting with their new teachers and classmates.

But if they head down the hall to check out a book from the school library, they might not be able to – because years of budget cuts and staffing…

Historic Preservation: Kill Bill 251030

Philadelphia is a historic city filled with historic buildings, but Philadelphia City Council is considering legislation that could alter Philadelphia’s ability to protect these buildings by changing the way historic preservation works in the city, a group of community members and organizations have been pushing back, and have formed a stop demolishing Philly coalition. Around…

Interview: Talking about preschool pushout and 8th grade algebra with Councilman Isaiah Thomas and Children First policy director Symbol Lai

Philadelphia City Council is considering ways to make schools equitable for all Philadelphians. This month’s council education meeting held hearings on two issues. One looked at students of color and students with disabilities being excluded and expelled from preschools. The other explored the fact that not every eighth grader in the city has access to…

Interview: Starr Garden Rec Center & Playground Recreation Leader Chloe Harris on creating LGBTQ+ inclusive spaces and programming

Starr Garden Rec Center & Playground in Philadelphia’s Society Hill neighborhood has a reputation as a welcoming space for LGTBQIA+ Philadelphians thanks to events programming, and well-trained staff. Starr Garden Recreation Leader Chloe Harris talks about what it takes to make community spaces feel inclusive.

July 4 resistance

Philadelphia has been in the spotlight as the nation commemorates the two hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, with many events scheduled throughout the city. But social justice groups have also been holding events at those sites to call attention to the ugly truths behind some of the nation’s…