US REP BOYLE, SUPERINTENDENT WATLINGTON, AFT PRESIDENT WEINGARTEN AND OTHERS JOINTLY PUSH FOR MORE FEDERAL FUNDING FOR PHILLY SCHOOLS

PHILADELPHIA - Today, on the first day of school for Philadelphia public school students, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), joined by Philadelphia School Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington, American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten, Philadelphia Federation of Teachers Arthur Steinberg, as well as local elected officials, to demand more federal funding for Philadelphia public schools and decry recent attempts to cut public education funding. Specifically, the group focused on the ongoing infrastructure challenges faced by public schools in Philadelphia. The press conference took place inside Olney's Thomas K. Finletter Academics Plus School, as thousands of students returned from summer vacation across the district for the first day of school.

"I see up close how some members of Congress have put federal education funding in their political crosshairs and won't stop until they've done irreparable harm", said Congressman Boyle. "I will continue to do everything in my power as your congressman and as the Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee to stand in their way. I will keep fighting these shortsighted, naïve and dangerous efforts from House Republicans to take money from our students and line the pockets of those who want to profit off the backs of our children's education. By increasing federal funding to this school district, we will help our children learn, grow and thrive and prepare them for successful futures."

"Schools are beacons of hope and sources of light-that's why students deserve schools that are equipped to prepare them for the future, and that requires investment," said AFT President Randi Weingarten. "The Biden-Harris administration prioritized public schools, providing federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds to ensure that schools, like those in Philadelphia, had a short-term fix of proper ventilation and resources. Improving ventilation was critical in providing a safe and welcoming environment for students and educators as we tried to overcome the effects of COVID-19. As the new school year begins, these funds are set to expire. We must act swiftly to ensure crucial improvements are made so that students-all students-will continue to have the support they need to thrive."

"We are grateful for the historic education investments made by the Biden-Harris administration and delivered by members of Congress including Congressman Boyle - and there is much more to be done. Public schools are the heart of every community, and they must be included in federal infrastructure spending", said Philadelphia Federation of Teachers President Arthur Steinberg. "This week, many Philadelphia public school students are returning to learning in totally unacceptable conditions. The first day of school should be full of joy; instead, students could face early dismissal because of high temperatures and a lack of air conditioning. The federal government has an obligation to support and strengthen public schools."
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