Parents Voice Concerns Over School Closing Plan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Public hearings are set on the Philadelphia School District's plan to close nine schools and reconfigure others, under a wide-ranging facilities plan.
The district last night presented its plan to close nine school buildings and reconfigure grades in dozens of others, to address under-utilized buildings.
Parent Temwa Wright says she was devastated when she heard E.M. Stanton Elementary at 17th and Christian was on the list.
"My heart literally dropped. I had a physical reaction. Because it makes no sense to close a school that is working."
School Reform Commission chair Wendell Pritchett says the closures are not a done deal -- first, the SRC will collect feedback at 17 community hearings.
"We invite public comment over what will be at least a three-month period before any decisions are made."
The SRC votes on the closure and consolidation plan next March or April.
Reported by Mike DeNardo, KYW Newsradio