SDP Connect: Thankful Edition
School is a building which has four walls with tomorrow inside.
– Lon Watters
American Education Week (AEW) is November 13-17, 2023.
A special thank you to every SDP employee for a job well done! Let’s celebrate all we have done, and all we will do together! Keep an eye on your email during American Education Week for a daily ‘thank you’ message and a few fun surprises.
WHAT'S HAPPENING NOW
Veterans Day Ceremony
You are invited to SDP’s Veterans Day Ceremony. Join us as we express our gratitude to those who have served our country with bravery and courage. The ceremony will take place on Thursday, November 9th, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at 440 N. Broad St. (in the Atrium, 1st Floor). If you have a veteran in your department, please share this link with them so they can upload a photo for the slideshow. Please be sure to spread the word as we want to honor all of our School District Veterans.
DonorsChoose Day of Match November 8th
STEM activities are often the ones kids remember from their time in school. (Who can forget dropping an egg with a parachute or coding for the first time?). Let’s give students a moment to remember this fall! While funds last, every donation to teacher requests for STEM supplies are being doubled thanks to General Motors & Young Sheldon on CBS! Support a DonorsChoose classroom right now! Click here to donate.
Bernard HBCU College Fair
The 25th Annual Malcolm Bernard HBCU (3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at School of the Future, 4021 Parkside Ave, Philadelphia, PA. Historically Black College/University) College Fair will be held on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, from 3ll have the opportunity to explore college options with HBCU admissions professionals, scholarships, application fee waivers & instant admissions, expert workshops & panels, and more. You may register here.
Central Office Staff Evaluation Focus Group Sign-Up
As part of the Accelerate Philly strategic plan, the School District of Philadelphia and the Office of Employee Effectiveness and Evaluation has contracted with Teaching and Learning Solutions (TLS) to develop a performance evaluation system for all Central Office Staff. To develop an effective model, we are seeking your input! You are invited to participate in a voluntary and confidential focus group that addresses several topics related to the evaluation model. If you’d like to participate in the focus group, please complete the Central Office Staff Evaluation Focus Group for Teaching and Learning Solutions Form by Wednesday, November 22nd. If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Employee Effectiveness and Evaluation at effectiveness@philasd.org.
SDP Author Spotlight
We want to read your book! The School District of Philadelphia welcomes Philadelphians of all experience levels to apply to be featured in the invitation-only SDP Author Spotlight. This application will close on December 10th. In partnership with the Office of Curriculum and Instruction, chosen authors will have the opportunity to host an hour-long virtual event, connecting them with fellow book enthusiasts from Philadelphia, and participating in engaging and meaningful discussions. If you are interested, please submit your application here.
Lindback Award Applications Now Open
The nomination period for the Lindback Award for Distinguished Principals and Teachers in 2023–2024 is now open. The Lindback Foundation will honor seven principals and 60 teachers from The School District of Philadelphia public schools who have demonstrated excellence in supporting learning at the highest levels during the 2023–2024 school year. Nominations, inclusive of completed applications for the principal award must be submitted by noon on Friday, January 12, 2024, and nominations inclusive of completed applications for the teacher award must be submitted by noon on Monday, February 12, 2024. The ceremony for the Lindback Award for Distinguished Principals ceremony will be held on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 and the Lindback Award for Distinguished Teachers ceremony will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. Both ceremonies will be held at the Philadelphia Film Center. Submit your nomination as soon as possible. More information on the awards, application materials and guidelines, and ceremonies can be found here. For more information, email: Lindback@philasd.org
OUR PEOPLE
Math & Science Excellence
Congratulations to John Smith III for being named a Finalist for the 2021 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching! This prestigious award celebrates exceptional K-12 STEM teachers who possess deep subject expertise and inspire student success. On October 17th, Mr. Smith traveled to Harrisburg for recognition of this extraordinary award and was recognized in the Capitol Rotunda. This award recognizes teachers who have both deep content knowledge of the subjects they teach and the ability to motivate and enable students to be successful in those areas. Being named a Finalist for Pennsylvania reflects John Smith III’s expertise and demonstration of his impact on student achievement.
Change From the Inside Out
A big round of applause for Principal Lillian Izzard and her spectacular efforts at Edison High School. It’s only been a little over a year since she took charge at Edison, and what a difference she’s made at what used to be one of the most challenging schools in the district! Thanks to Izzard, more freshmen are on the path to graduation (a rise of 6.5%), and both teacher and student attendance have seen improvements (increases of 2.3% and 6.2% respectively.) But that’s not all! This year, there’s been a noticeable decrease in serious incidents. The positive changes she’s been able to bring about in such a short span of time are a clear reflection of her dedication to excellence. Hats off to you, Principal Izzard! Keep up the amazing work you’re doing for our school district. Read more of Prinicpla Izzard’s story here.
Senior & Teacher of the Month Winners
Teacher of the Month
Danielle Farley
Lankenau High school
Senior of the Month
Yesenia Perez
One Bright Ray Academy
Senior of the Month
Jada Collins
Academy at Palumbo
SCHOOL OF THE WEEK
Congratulations Cayuga Elementary School
The Philadelphia Tribune features “Good News” from The School District of Philadelphia each week in its Learning Key section. In addition to SDP’s “Good News,” every Tuesday the Tribune names a District school as School of the Week. Every week one of our schools is highlighted for the amazing work they are doing with our students. We’re excited to announce Cayuga Elementary School as School of the Week in The Philadelphia Tribune’s Learning Key. Read Cayuga’s feature article in the Tribune here.
Be on the lookout for more School of the Week features in SDP Weekly and SDP Connect!
NOVEMBER FEATURES
First Responders Day
First Responders Day was celebrated on October 28, and the students at Randolph Technical High School were buzzing with excitement and eagerness! They were all geared up, taking on their drills with full force. Here’s an interesting fact: Randolph is the one and only high school in Philadelphia that offers students the opportunity to train as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and firefighters. In fact, their renowned EMT/Fire Academy Program, which has been running strong for over a decade, is a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing future front-line heroes. This has been made possible through a partnership with the Philadelphia Fire Department, which allows Randolph’s students to train directly under seasoned professionals each day from 7:30 a.m. until noon. Talk about a hands-on learning experience! The program doesn’t just provide practical skills, but also imparts life lessons and real-world experience, which are equally important in shaping the students’ future. It’s a testament to the power of education and its role in shaping future generations. Read more about the impact this program is having on Randolph students here.
Junior Achiever
Huge congratulations to Miguel Perez, a student at the Philadelphia Virtual Academy, a Philadelphia Virtual Academy student with a passion for business. With guidance from his school counselor, he joined the Junior Achievement Program. Alongside his teammates, Miguel co-authored a book titled “Help! I Can’t Cook!” and even won a competition in May for showcasing their talents. They didn’t stop there; they produced a commercial for their book which is available on YouTube for viewing. Miguel is thankful to his mentors and peers for his rapid learning journey. This year, 40 students from Philadelphia will join the JA Company program, a platform that served 24,000 youngsters last year, with over half from Philadelphia. Learn more about Miguel’s victories and the Junior Achievement Program. This is a perfect example of how students can learn and excel outside the classroom. Read more about Miguel’s achievements and the Junior Achievement Program here.
TELLING OUR STORIES
Health Tech Program | The School District of Philadelphia
The School District of Philadelphia and St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children team up to create the next generation of healthcare professionals through the Health Tech Program. The program offers high school students the opportunity to learn about all aspects of the healthcare industry and gain hands-on experience in the field. Watch the video to learn more.
OFFICE SPOTLIGHT
OFFICE OF
Family & Community Engagement
The Office of Family and Community Engagement is dedicated to creating and supporting partnerships among schools, families, and communities. As a central resource for family engagement, FACE staff strive to engage and inform parent leaders and families as essential partners in helping students achieve academic proficiency and college and career readiness. FACE is here to assist families in navigating the School District, and we are proud to offer opportunities for families to actively take part in their children’s academic lives.
What’s New with F.A.C.E.
FACT Family Academy: Courses and Training
Mark your calendar! Starting November 18, Family Academy: Courses and Training (FACT) returns with engaging virtual AND in-person workshops for you and your family! November’s sessions include nutrition, family math, and paying for college. Learn more and register today here!
New and Improved Welcome Center at 440 N. Broad Street!
The School District of Philadelphia’s Welcome Center has undergone renovations to improve visitors’ experience and service. The makeover includes new furniture, upgraded technology- smartboard and 8 computers, a private consultation area, workshop space for large group presentations, and a children’s play area complete with toys, games, and books; and other remodeling improvements paint, signage, and carpeting.
The Welcome Center offers a welcoming and engaging environment for parents/caregivers, community members, and employees to access information and resources to support the success of all students.
Staff members are available to provide support by email (ask@philasd.org), by phone (215-400-4180, option #3) or in-person Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm at the Education Center, 440 N. Broad Street in Suite 131.
Professional Development Opportunities
In addition to school and District-level workshops for families, the FACE Office also provides professional learning opportunities to District staff. Staff in all stakeholder groups are invited to join sessions throughout the year through the Offices of Professional Learning and Leadership Development. FACE is also happy to provide customized learning sessions to meet the unique needs of schools and program offices. To learn more or request sessions, please email fact@philasd.org.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Flexible Spending Open Enrollment Announcement
Time to Enroll! Flexible Spending Account Open Enrollment is here. The Open Enrollment period for the Flexible Spending Account is November 1-November 30.
The School District of Philadelphia is pleased to offer you valuable Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Commuter pre-tax benefits. These benefits allow you to set aside money on a tax-free basis to pay for eligible health care, dependent care, and commuter expenses. The funds are deducted from your paycheck before taxes are applied – allowing you to save money.
The Open Enrollment period is November 1 through November 30. All employees must re-enroll every year. Sign up at the FSA Enrollment website.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Important Dates:
22nd: 3-hour Early Dismissal for students and staff
23rd-24th: Thanksgiving Recess; School closed for students and staff; Administrative offices closed
27th: Term 1 Report Card Conferences (Full Day); School closed for students
Additional Important Dates:
11th: Veterans Day
12th: Diwali
Native American Heritage Month
November is Indigenous Peoples’ History Month! It is a time to celebrate the traditions, languages, and stories of Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and Island communities and ensure their rich histories and contributions continue to thrive with each passing generation. For resources, events, and information on notable Native American figures, visit our cultural celebration page.
Family Engagement Month
November is Family Engagement Month. This is a time dedicated to acknowledging and appreciating the growth and impact of family engagement in education. This special month serves as a reminder of the critical role that parents, caregivers, community leaders, educators and advocates play in student success.
School Psychology Week
Thank you to all of our School Psychologists! The School District of Philadelphia recognizes November 6–10, 2023, as National School Psychology Week (NSPW). In doing so, our district will join with others across the country in making a commitment to help our students and staff celebrate the theme “Let’s Grow Together.”
Homeless Youth Awareness Week
November was first declared as National Homeless Youth Awareness Month in 2007. Since then, November has been a time to acknowledge those children and families experiencing homelessness. As many as 2.5 million youth per year experience homelessness. Through the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, SDP ensures educational stability despite housing insecurity by providing access to resources and support. All District staff are invited to wear a RED shirt on Thursday, November 17 to show solidarity and bring awareness to youth and families experiencing homelessness. Schools are encouraged to take a group photo of everyone wearing red, and show your support by posting the photo on social media using #IWILLBEYOURVOICE and tag @PHLschools.
American Education Week
November 14-18 is American Education Week! The School District of Philadelphia is celebrating this most important time with exciting events and special messages all week long. Be sure to check your emails!
Transgender Week of Awareness/Trans Day of Remembrance
Each year between November 13 – 19, people and organizations around the country participate in Transgender Awareness Week to help raise the visibility about transgender people and address issues members of the community face. Learn More.
Transgender Remembrance Coffee House & Open Mic | November 17th, 4-6 PM at 440 N. Broad St.
In honor of Transgender Day of Remembrance, the District Equity Coalition will host an open mic for students, staff, & families to share poetry, art, & other forms of expression that affirm & acknowledge the transgender experience. If you are interested in attending and/or performing, please RSVP here. For more information, please email equity@philasd.org.
DEPARTMENT NEWSLETTERS
Check out what's going on in other departments around the District
Check out the Equity Coalition newsletter for upcoming events, podcasts, professional development opportunities and more!
RESOURCES
Feeling Perky
As a district employee, you have access to various deals and discounts. Check out our Employee Perks here.
Get a Little Extra
See the Office of Grant Development’s list of grant opportunities on its website. View the newsletter for more information.
Observe & Report
Your help is essential in ensuring the School District runs efficiently and fairly. Report suspected wrongdoing within the district to the Office of Inspector General here.
Spread the Word
We’re hiring. Everywhere! Know someone who’s searching? Send them to workinphilly.com for our school-based support roles & teachinphilly.com for our instructional roles.
Keep Track
Follow the District’s progress towards the Goals and Guardrails and stay up to date through research reports and webinars from our Office of Research and Evaluation.
Stay Sharp
Cornerstone has PD for all employees, some specific to Central Office.
Climate & Culture
Need Climate & Culture Resources for your school? See what’s available here.
TRIVIA
Teacher of the Month, Danielle Farley and her students have artwork on display in a prime location in Philadelphia. Where is the artwork located?
The first central office employee and the first school-based employee with the correct answer will win a prize!
Communication's Corner
The Office of Communications strives to make news, information, and resources easily accessible. Every month we will provide information and reminders to help keep you connected.
Working on a project or campaign in your office? The communications team provides helpful resources like branding and color guides, presentation templates, and photo catalogs, to help you keep your project stylish and on-brand. Just click here.
Have a story to share or someone to celebrate? Submit your story idea click here.