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Hello, Carly here with Chalkbeat Philly.
Coming at you this school year: digital hall passes. The new system will be available — but not required — for all schools and will allow administrators to closely track students’ whereabouts. Officials are hoping the digital passes will help prevent physical violence between students. Reporter Sammy Caiola reports some skeptics are worried about over-surveillance. Let us know what you think.
In other news, the district is putting together new transition committees for schools slated for closure. Applications open on Aug. 31, and committees will be established for the schools closing this academic year, schools receiving students from a closing school in 2027-28, and any school phasing out grade levels at the end of school year 2026-27. We’ll send out that application when it goes live.
Plus, reporter Rebecca Redelmeier goes deep on school cellphone policies.
Got a story tip or question? Reach us at [email protected].
A new school year needs strong local reporting. Help Chalkbeat’s reporters keep asking the questions that matter.
Local News
Philadelphia to make digital hall pass and student tracking system available at all schools
Philly schools ask communities to help shape transition plan as controversial closures move ahead
Pennsylvania still hasn’t passed a school cellphone ban. Some Philly principals aren’t waiting.
Around Chalkbeat
Back-to-school: 6 things to watch in Newark Public Schools this year
Work first, college degree later: Indiana wants students to consider a new postsecondary model
What We’re Reading
This local entrepreneur is using his cleaning business to create opportunities for young people, Germantown Info Hub
A Lincoln High parent and Mayfair resident want a judge to halt the move of Kensington HS students to a Northeast Philly school, The Philadelphia Inquirer (Paywall)



