It’s almost time for another amazing year of Community Schools, Philly Reading Coaches, PHLpreK, and more! As we head into 2020, here’s a look back at some of our favorite moments of 2019.

 

1. We can’t ring in a new year without looking back on the first day of school – when we #RingTheBellPHL.

 

 

2. This year we celebrated Mayor Kenney’s 200th school visit and welcomed in five new Community Schools.

 

 

3. It was a year of growth. PHLpreK expanded to 3,300 seats. In 2020, the City’s free, quality pre-K program will serve 4,300 students.

 

 

4. And 2019 brought Philly Reading Coaches’ biggest year yet. The initiative is currently at 28 sites throughout the city. Watch the video below to learn more and sign up to volunteer today.

 

 

5. We can’t wait to celebrate PHLpreK students’ successes again next year. Take a look back on the 2019 Day of Play, one of our favorite days of the year.

 

 

6. #CoordinatorsRock week is always one of our favorite weeks of the year. Check out how we surprised Community School coordinators with letters of appreciation from their school communities.

 

 

7. What else did we love about 2019? We surprised Mayor Kenney on a very special day in August!

 

 

8. And we had a good morning in June! Good Morning America surprised and honored one of our Community School coordinators. Grab your tissues and take a look back.

 

 

9. We love connecting Philadelphians to career opportunities. Check out this blog post to see which PHLpreK centers are hiring. We loved hosting ECE job fairs this year. (Did you know PHLpreK has created over 350 new jobs?)

 

10. And of course, there’s no way to end a year like looking toward the next. Did you know? In 2020, ten Community Schools will offer free adult education classes. Register today.

 

We’re excited for all that is next, including expanding Community Schools, Philly Reading Coaches, PHLpreK and continuing to connect Philadelphians with the resources they need to thrive. Check out our Facebook page for upcoming events.

What was your favorite moment of 2019? Let us know! Share your memories with @PHL_MOE on Twitter. Happy New Year!

 

Learn more about Winter Meals
This winter break, children can eat free, healthy meals at select Parks & Recreation locations (note: supplies are limited). The City’s “Winter Meals” online resource also lists food pantries and special distribution events where families can access food during the winter.