In her first public education event since assuming office, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker emphasized the importance of school funding and year-round access to educational opportunities in Philadelphia. Speaking at the State of the Schools address held at the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts, Mayor Parker called for a collaborative effort from federal, state, and city governments, as well as the private sector and philanthropic community, to support the city's schools.

Mayor Parker stressed the need to prioritize public education funding during the budget cycle, citing the long-standing issue of Philadelphia schools receiving insufficient funding. She expressed her desire to provide adequate resources to schools, stating that they should no longer have to make do with mere "crumbles" of funding when they deserve a "whole loaf."

Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. also addressed the crowd during his State of the Schools speech. He highlighted the progress made in the district and outlined his vision for accelerating student achievement. Watlington emphasized the importance of providing more time, not less, for students in schools.

Mayor Parker echoed this sentiment, reiterating her support for year-round access to educational opportunities during non-traditional times. She emphasized the need for young people to have continuous access to such opportunities, whether it be through year-round school or other out-of-school-time programs. The mayor acknowledged that the model for achieving this vision would involve connecting schools with city services such as health centers and libraries.

The district's aging school facilities also came under scrutiny during the event. Mayor Parker discussed the need to examine these facilities on a large scale, considering their average age of 73 years and the environmental issues they face. She expressed interest in exploring innovative ways to build new facilities and connect them with essential city services.

While specific details regarding the implementation of year-round education have yet to be announced, Superintendent Watlington revealed that a 10-school pilot program is part of his strategic plan, Accelerate Philly. The district plans to convene parents to discuss the finer details of this initiative.

However, the viability of these plans ultimately hinges on funding. The Philadelphia School District, unable to raise its own revenue like other districts in Pennsylvania, is projecting a $400 million deficit as federal COVID-19 relief funds run out. This chronic underfunding will require the district to seek support from Harrisburg and City Hall.

Superintendent Watlington remains committed to his goal of making Philadelphia the fastest-improving, large, urban district in the country. He highlighted positive developments, such as improved standardized test scores, higher graduation rates, increased student and teacher attendance, and a decreasing dropout rate. Watlington urged all sectors of the city to join forces to accelerate progress.

The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia, the district's nonprofit arm, has pledged $40 million over the next five years to specific initiatives outlined in Superintendent Watlington's strategic plan. This includes funding for paid parent ambassadors and a parent-training program.

In conclusion, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker's focus on education funding and year-round access to educational opportunities demonstrates her commitment to improving Philadelphia schools. With the support of various stakeholders, including the Fund for the School District of Philadelphia, there is optimism for the district's ability to address its funding challenges and provide enhanced resources and opportunities for students.