Why The New School Year Offers Reasons for Hope

Educators on how the school year that starts today in Philly could be one that makes the new normal better than normal

By Lauren McCutcheon

What Problem is the School Board Solving For?

The three finalists for Philly’s new schools superintendent might very well be solid educators. But has anyone asked if that’s really what we need?

By Larry Platt

Guest Commentary: Reject the Curse of Low Expectations

The Philadelphia School Board is on the verge of hiring a new superintendent. But, a former Temple education professor warns, it will take more than one person to transform our schools

By Peshe Kuriloff

Who Should Replace Bill Hite?

Superintendent Hite’s announcement this week that he’s leaving the post at the end of the school year is an opportunity for Philadelphia. Here, a wish list of possible school leaders.

By Roxanne Patel Shepelavy

How Not to Start a School Year

The rage-inducing opening of the new school year illustrates why good management matters—and how our leaders are failing us

By Roxanne Patel Shepelavy

Will The School District Squander Its $1.1 Billion Stimulus Windfall?

A history of management snafus under Superintendent Bill Hite can only make you wonder if we’re able to seize this potentially transformative moment

By Larry Platt

Bill Hite, Reconsidered

Philadelphia’s schools superintendent has taken some hits lately. Does he have what it takes to manage—and tame—a $3.5 billion bureaucracy?

By Larry Platt

Guest Commentary: Help All Students #LogOnPHL

A first-day-of-school assignment for all Philadelphians from the mayor and schools superintendent.

By Jim Kenney and William R. Hite Jr.