The Pennsylvania School Reform Commission voted June 1 to close 23 Philadelphia public schools, saying a budget deficit made the move necessary. But while officials blamed the decision on a $304 million debt, others are questioning the state’s decision to simultaneously spend hundreds of millions on corporate tax breaks and a new prison. Students
Citing Budget Deficit, Philadelphia Closes 23 Schools — But Spends Historic Sum On New Prison
Nearly 10 percent of the Philadelphia Public Schools system has been shut down; 81 percent of the students affected are Black.