It's time for the state to step up on funding for Phila. schools

The city and School District of Philadelphia are finally moving forward with a plan to raise revenue for our schools by aggressively marketing and selling vacant buildings. That is a win for students and taxpayers.

Now we are free to focus 100 percent on the district's primary challenge: unpredictable, insufficient, patchwork funding from the commonwealth, which both operates the School District and is constitutionally obligated to ensure adequate resources.

These last few months have been eye-opening for members of City Council. Of all elected officials in the state, we have by far the closest relationship with students, parents, and staff in our public schools. Yet we, the representatives of the people of Philadelphia, have never had a seat at the table when it comes to district operations and finances.

The School Reform Commission, which oversees Philadelphia schools, comprises appointees of the governor and the mayor. No member of Council has ever sat on the SRC. While we do not at this time call for a change in the SRC's structure, we insist on having more access to information about district finances and operations. We believe this is a reasonable request, as the public will always turn to its elected representatives in City Hall during times of crisis in our schools.

Council is pleased Mayor Nutter has signaled he will join us in requesting the following from our elected officials in Harrisburg:

Amended extension of the Philadelphia sales tax to split revenue between the School District and the city's underfunded pensions. This would mean at least $60 million in new annual revenue from the city for schools, while also ensuring the city responsibly manages its pension fund and is not forced to cut public safety and other essential services to achieve solvency.

Passage of H.B. 1751 and S.B. 944, which authorize a $2-per-pack tax increase on tobacco products in Philadelphia. This would mean as much as $90 million in new annual revenue from the city for schools.

Restoration of reimbursement for charter-school expenses. This year, the district is expected to send $674.8 million to privately run, publicly funded charter schools. We commend the district's efforts to cap charter enrollment to manage costs and seek reinstatement of an annual $45 million state reimbursement for charter costs starting next fiscal year.

A fair, reliable funding formula for all public schools in the commonwealth that accounts for student population and needs.

City Council has met with a number of education advocates, teachers, and concerned parents throughout this crisis. We agree that even if the district's budget needs were met today, the long-term operational, academic, safety, and wellness challenges facing our students would remain unsolved. We are learning about new education models that have seen success elsewhere in the nation, and we hope the district and the SRC will be open to a dialogue that includes parents, educators, members of the public, and their representatives on City Council.

With thoughtful and fair funding, as well as transparent and accountable operations, we are confident that the School District can get back on track toward growing student achievement and success.