Commission Seeks Safer Philadelphia Schools

A committee assessing school safety in Philadelphia says the city school district needs to do a more consistent job reporting crime and offer more support for students and families affected by crimes.

The Blue Ribbon Committee on Safe Schools found that the district does not have adequate therapeutic counseling, treatment, and social support services for students and families; availability of preventive programs is inconsistent, and that the district does not provide school leaders a consistent forum for learning about effective safety strategies.

The report also notes characteristics of schools that have created positive school climates, including strong leadership; improved relationships; articulated behavioral norms; and collaboration.