The School District of Philadelphia

Students from across the Greater Philadelphia region recently came together for the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia's Junior Model United Nations final conference, demonstrating the critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills they strengthened through the Jr. MUN Student Diplomat Program. Over the past five months, students in grades 6–8 explored topics including global affairs, diplomacy, negotiation, research, writing, and public speaking. Representing countries from the United Nations, students collaborated to discuss and develop solutions to real-world issues tied to the Sustainable Development Goals. Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr., Ed.D. joined students at the conference to celebrate their hard work and growth throughout the program. We are proud to see our students developing the confidence, leadership, and communication skills that will support their success both inside and outside the classroom.

Today we celebrated our 2nd Annual PHLAbilities event . 🎉 ⁣ Students with varying abilities from across the School District of Philadelphia were recognized for their academic achievements and contributions to their school communities. Families also had access to supportive resources and enjoyed sensory-friendly, inclusive spaces designed for connection and celebration.⁣ ⁣ It was a joyful day honoring the brilliance, resilience, and potential of every student.

The Vare-Washington community came together for its 16th Annual Autism Walk, creating a joyful celebration filled with school spirit, support, and inclusion Students, staff, families, and Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr., Ed.D. joined the walk to celebrate acceptance and uplift the importance of creating welcoming environments where every student feels valued and supported. It was an inspiring day that reflected the strength and unity of the Vare-Washington community.

Today, we honored the extraordinary legacy of Dr. Constance Clayton, a pioneering leader whose impact on public education in Philadelphia continues to inspire generations of students, educators, and families. The renaming ceremony featured the unveiling of a newly dedicated building, a street renamed in her honor, and a powerful mural created by Mural Arts that will serve as a lasting tribute to her vision and leadership. We extend our sincere gratitude to CASA President Dr. Robin P. Cooper, the Renaming Committee, Councilmember Jeffery Young Jr for his leadership in advancing the Buttonwood Street renaming, Jane Golden and Mural Arts Philadelphia for helping bring this meaningful tribute to life. Dr. Clayton’s legacy will continue to shine through the countless lives she impacted and the future generations she helped empower.

🎉 Congratulations to Principal Beard Sakia of Richard R. Wright School, recipient of the 2026 Lindback Award for Distinguished Principals! 🏆 A dedicated leader committed to supporting students and staff, fostering inclusion, promoting academic success, and ensuring access to the resources needed to feel safe and thrive.

We were proud to celebrate David Stokes, physical education teacher at Paul Robeson High School, on being named a 2025–26 National LifeChanger of the Year Award Winner! 🎉 During a surprise assembly filled with students, staff, and District leaders, Mr. Stokes was recognized for the incredible impact he has made on school culture, student well-being, and community pride at Robeson. Selected from more than 1,000 educators and school employees nationwide, this national honor reflects his dedication to uplifting and inspiring students every day. Congratulations to Mr. Stokes and the entire Robeson school community on this well-deserved recognition! #PHLED Read more: https://bit.ly/3RaCp2Q 📸 The Philadelphia Inquirer

Happy National School Nurses Week! 💙🩺 This week, schools across the School District of Philadelphia celebrated our incredible nurses with gifts, kind messages, and lots of love in recognition of all they do for students and school communities. Thank you to our school nurses for the care, compassion, and support you bring to our schools every day!

As we close out our Teacher Appreciation Week celebration, we're taking a look back at this school year's Teacher of the Month honorees so far. 🍎 Their passion, creativity, and commitment make a lasting impact in classrooms and school communities across the District, helping students feel supported, inspired, and empowered every day. 🎉 One more honoree to go... stay tuned! 👀 #PHLED

🎉 Congratulations to Dr. Michelle Burns of Randolph Technical High School, recipient of the 2026 Lindback Award for Distinguished Principals! 🏆 A passionate and dedicated leader who goes above and beyond to support students and staff, ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed.

We were proud to bring together more than 130 faith leaders from across Philadelphia for our inaugural Faith-Based Summit, centered on strengthening collaboration to support student achievement, well-being, and attendance. This convening provided an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and partnership as we examined current and future ways to align with Accelerate Philly, our five-year strategic plan. Together, we are expanding a strong network of faith leaders dedicated to advancing educational equity across our city. We are grateful for the engagement, partnership, and shared commitment of our faith community and look forward to continuing this important work together.