High school classes in Philly will start at 9:00 a.m. from next school year. Philadelphia School District (PhilaSD) made the announcement in a letter sent to staff and shared with 6abc Action News on Thursday, March 17.
It covers all but four district high schools because their schedules must align with partner institutions, according to PhilaSD.
Pre-Kindergarten programs located in high schools and elementary schools in the district (defined as schools serving Pre-K) and 8th grade will keep their current schedules too.
High aspirations for high school students
PhilaSD expects that later start times for high school classes enable students to arrive at school more alert and ready to learn. But not everyone is pleased with the time change.
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The Philadelphia Teachers Union states the “unilateral schedule change” goes against the contractually outlined procedures. They have shared their opposition with PhilaSD, according to a tweet from the @PFTLocal3 account.
PFT Members: We have reviewed the District's communication regarding HS schedules and have shared our opposition with the District. We will keep you informed. #phled pic.twitter.com/ppFUI9Bk2q
— PFT (@PFTLocal3) March 17, 2022