On the first day of the academic year for Philadelphia public schools, students around the city were excited to return to classes.
Challenges abound, from lack of air conditioning to a teacher shortage. But a last-minute service workers strike was averted, and parents and education activists are still hoping for progress under new District Superintendent Tony Watlington — despite a start marred by a controversial consulting contract.
Billy Penn is partnering with Temple’s new Logan Center for Urban Investigative Reporting on a yearlong project examining inequities and disparities within the Philly School District.
On Monday, our photographers captured the atmosphere outside several of the city’s schools — all with very different outlooks, in neighborhoods across Philadelphia. One thing held true: there was optimism in the air. Kids hugged parents goodbye, and waved as they reconnected with friends. Teens lined up to sign in for activities and academics.
Scroll down for a look at the first day of Philly school for the 2022-2023 year.










💌 Love Philly? Sign up for the free Billy Penn newsletter and stay in the know







🤝 Community over clicks 🤝
Your donation supports our mission to connect Philadelphians — to useful and fun information, and to one another. Join us as a sustaining member to make sure we stick around.