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Dear School District of Philadelphia families,

The last day of school is days away and summer is almost here. As we wrap up this school year, I encourage students and families to finish strong! Students should attend school every day this week, and head proudly into the summer to enjoy fun activities and valuable time with family and friends. Below is some information to help us all enjoy summer to the fullest and prepare us for a successful 2024-25 school year.

Summer Learning

Summer Academic Programming begins on June 25, 2024 for enrolled District students. Spots are still available in our Young Entrepreneurs Program for students that will be entering 9th grade. Learn more and register for Young Entrepreneurs here. Additionally, there are still spots available at a few of our Summer Achievers sites, for students who will be entering grades 1 through 8. You can visit the Summer Programs website to learn more, or go straight to the Summer Achievers site list here.

Regardless of whether children are participating in summer programs, we encourage parents and families to support continued learning at home. Visit local libraries to check out some of the books on our summer reading list. In addition, this document of Summer Math Recommendations provides ideas to help students at every grade level apply skills in numbers, shapes, data, and patterns in the world around them. The City of Philadelphia also offers free and low-cost activities and programs for children and youth during the summer. Visit www.phila.gov/families for locations and additional information.

Stay Connected Online

The School District will be hard at work this summer preparing for next school year. That means that we will be sharing news and updates with you throughout the summer, especially as we get closer to the first day of school. A reliable internet connection will be important for staying up-to-date. Though the City of Philadelphia’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has expired, the City is supporting families in getting free or low cost internet through PHLConnectED. If you have noticed that your service has ended, or your bill has increased, or if you’re simply looking for a low-cost internet option, please visit the PHLConnectED website or dial 2-1-1 to speak to a City of Philadelphia Digital Navigator.

Immunizations & Physicals

The District has partnered with Delaware Valley Community Health, Black Doctors Consortium and The Family Practice & Counseling Network, to provide vaccines and sports physicals to District students at select locations through July and August. Physical and immunization services are provided to all students regardless of insurance status. Find dates and locations of the summer vaccination and physical events, see age and paperwork requirements for specific events, and book an appointment at www.philasd.org/vax.

Students can also receive free dental screenings throughout the summer at the Children’s Dental Clinic at W.D. Kelley School, located at 1601 N 28th St., Philadelphia, PA 19121. The dental clinic offers examinations, fillings, crowns, extractions and emergency care. Find out how to book an appointment by visiting the Student Health website.

Indeed, there is a lot to be done this summer in preparation for Monday, August 26 – the first day of school. Please look out for more information this summer, including information on our 4th Annual Back-to-School Bus Tour, so that you are well prepared to return in the fall. Until then, have a wonderful summer!

In partnership,

Tony B. Watlington Sr., Ed.D.
Superintendent
The School District of Philadelphia