Public Union Democracy
Union bosses or real estate moguls? Tracking the PFT’s finances
Originally published at Center Square One reason Philadelphia workers may choose – or feel compelled – to join a union is the promise of access to special funds to…
Media Hit
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Pa. Back to School Public Education Trends
Overview As students head back to school, there are many claims of teacher shortages and funding shortfalls. In reality, public school spending is at a record high, and Pennsylvania ranks…
Backgrounder
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Gov. Shapiro and Pa. lawmakers can address absenteeism, violence by giving kids a lifeline
Originally published in The Philadelphia Inquirer Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. is right: For students within the Philadelphia School District, attendance is a life-and-death issue,…
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Students in Philadelphia Need a Lifeline
Background The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that chronic absenteeism rose by 93 percent in the Philadelphia School District during the 2021–22 school year. Research links chronic absenteeism to…
Commentary
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Pa. Education Funding Spikes Again
Key Points Pennsylvania school district spending per student increased to $21,263 in 2021–22. State support of public education is up 55.7 percent over the last decade, reaching an all-time high…
Backgrounder
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How the next mayor can help Philadelphia’s schools
Originally published in The Philadelphia Inquirer The top reason people with kids move out of Philadelphia isn’t because of crime or jobs — it’s…
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Why parents are choosing Black-led charter schools
Originally published in The Philadelphia Inquirer For years, Black parents in Philadelphia have been pulling their kids out of traditional public schools and enrolling them in charters. As of…
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Gov. Wolf Should Pick the Side of Students
Originally published in The Philadelphia Citizen All students—regardless of their race, sex, or birthplace—deserve the opportunity to succeed. They deserve education choices. But school boards—and most recently, Gov. Tom…
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Analysis: More COVID Aid Went to Education Than Healthcare in Pa.
June 3, 2021, Harrisburg, Pa. – Commonwealth Foundation has completed an analysis of the distribution of federal relief funds in Pennsylvania during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among other findings, it shows that public education has been the biggest winner—even being allocated more than health…
Press Release
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