We the People Wednesdays Action for May 13

The School District of Philadelphia is facing a $300 million dollar structural deficit for the 2026-2027 school year primarily due to loss of federal funds. Schools are facing devastating cuts to school staff that would directly harm thousands of students across the city. More than 3,700 students will lose a teacher, thousands more will lose a counselor, and 68 schools will lose the valuable climate staff who help create a positive environment outside the classroom if City Council fails to address the district’s budget shortfall.

Mayor Parker proposed a plan to save 340 school jobs by raising $48 million through a new rideshare tax, $1 per ride, on companies like Uber and Lyft.  Similar taxes are already in place in many cities across the country.  Children First and other public school advocates are urging support for this proposal.

Write to District 8 City Councilmember Cindy Bass and/or At Large Member Isaiah Thomas, Education Committee Chair.  Adapt this sample text:

Dear Councilmember Bass/Thomas,

  Please support the rideshare tax to fund Philly schools and eliminate 340 staff cuts.

Sincerely,

<your name and zip>

The Honorable Cindy Bass

CIty Hall Room 508

Philadelphia, PA 19107

The Honorable Isaiah Thomas

CIty Hall Room 330A

Philadelphia, PA 19107