Philadelphia City Council members vow to influence school closure plan

Council members say they'll use their 'bully pulpit' to shape the district's proposal, even though they don't have a formal vote.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Philadelphia city council members made clear at a hearing that although they don't have a formal vote on the district's school closure plan, they will use their influence to shape the proposal before it is adopted. Council members raised concerns about the plan's lack of detail and said the community engagement process hasn't made families feel included. While the district emphasized the plan is still a draft, council members said they will use the upcoming budget process to signal their approval or disapproval.

Why it matters

The school closure plan is a major decision that will impact communities across Philadelphia, and city council members feel they have a responsibility to elevate the concerns of students and families, even though they don't have an official vote. The dynamic highlights the complex power dynamics between the district and city government, and the desire of local leaders to have a say in decisions that affect their constituents.

The details

At an all-day hearing, council members interrogated Superintendent Tony Watlington, Board of Education President Reginald Streater, and other district representatives about the proposed plan to close 20 Philly schools beginning in 2027. Members raised concerns about the plan's lack of detail on student transportation, safety, changing demographics, and academic inequities. Some said the plan feels rushed and lacks consideration of Philadelphia neighborhood dynamics. Council members said the community engagement process hasn't made families feel included.

  • The district will formally present the closure plan to the school board on Feb. 26, 2026, but the board will not be voting on it at that meeting.
  • The timeline for the school board's voting process on the plan has not been determined.

The players

Tony Watlington

Superintendent of the Philadelphia School District.

Reginald Streater

President of the Philadelphia Board of Education.

Kenyatta Johnson

President of the Philadelphia City Council.

Isaiah Thomas

Chair of the Philadelphia City Council's Education Committee.

Jim Harrity

Member of the Philadelphia City Council.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.