PHILADELPHIA (January 29, 2026) – Following a half school day of treacherous commutes and dangerous building conditions, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers on Thursday urged the School District of Philadelphia to return to remote learning on Friday.
PFT President Arthur G. Steinberg said in a statement:
"On behalf of the more than 14,000 educators we represent, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers calls on the School District to return to remote instruction on Friday, where the forecasted high temperature is 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
"As educators, our members regularly report to work without complaint because of their strong commitment to providing learning opportunities for Philadelphia students. This morning, however, our members and students were forced to navigate unshoveled sidewalks and steps, entrances blocked by giant piles of snow, freezing classrooms, and broken plumbing in school buildings across the city.
"Outrageously, disabled students at Penrose Elementary were forced to endure the indignity of unshoveled wheelchair ramps. Our members were out in freezing temperatures shoveling snow – work that the District should have ensured was completed for the safety of vulnerable children.
"The School District of Philadelphia’s return to in-person learning today was reckless, and a contradiction of their claim of exercising ‘an abundance of caution’ when making such decisions. Forcing students, families, and staff to navigate still-treacherous commutes after an historic snowfall and freezing temperatures was careless. And considering today and tomorrow are half-days because of report card conferences, it’s impossible to see how extending virtual learning through the rest of the week was deemed unjustified by the administration.
"Our members share the District’s preference for in-classroom learning – but only when building and travel conditions are safe to do so. We are deeply appreciative of the municipal workers who’ve toiled around the clock to clear streets; last weekend’s storm was unusual for our region. Giving workers the time and resources they need to labor in challenging conditions is the fair and respectful thing to do.
"The District must also show respect to students, families, and our members by rectifying the broken heaters, burst pipes, icy sidewalks, and piles of snow in parking lots as soon as possible, so that students and staff can safely resume in-person instruction on Monday."
Photo: A classroom that could not be used at Vare-Washington Elementary School in South Philadelphia on Thursday due to burst pipes and unstable heating and plumbing. The cafeteria, gym, and music room were also unusable due to poor building conditions.
