PHILADELPHIA – The City of Philadelphia is excited to welcome students and families back for the 2025-2026 school year with new and returning programs, resources, and supports designed to help children succeed in and out of the classroom.

“Back-to-school season is a chance for us to connect families with programs that make a real difference,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “We’re committed to ensuring every child in Philadelphia has a safe space to learn, grow, and succeed, whether that’s in the classroom, after school, or during the summer months.”

This year, families can expect: 

  • Extended Day, Extended Year Initiative (EDEY): Offers free before- and after-school enrichment activities, holiday camps, and a six-week summer camp at participating schools to support working families and help students thrive year-round.
  • Out-of-School Time (OST) Programming: Available for youth in grades K-12 at no or low cost to families. Families can use the City’s OST Program Locator to find programs and contact agencies directly for enrollment.
  • Parks & Recreation After School Programs: Serving ages 6-12 and providing sports, arts, reading, STEM, and environmental education at sites across the city. Most programs run weekdays from 3-6 p.m. and begin on or before September 9.
  • The Free Library of Philadelphia: 
    •  The Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program is offered at all library locations during the school year for youth in grades K-12, at no cost to families.
    • For teens, the Free Library offers leadership and volunteer opportunities, including paid After-School Leaders and Teen Leadership Assistant roles, plus community service and career readiness workshops.
  • Specialized Youth Programs:
    • Intensive Prevention Services: For youth ages 10-19 at risk of juvenile justice involvement. 
    • Community Evening Resource Centers: Offers safe spaces for youth ages 10-17 to engage in positive youth development. Open daily from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.
    • Girls T.R.A.CK./ Boys T.R.A.C.K: For youth in grades 7-12, covering personal growth, healthy relationships, and career exploration.
    • Philadelphia Youth Leadership Council and Teenshop: Offers leadership, life skills, and community services opportunities.
    • Achieving Independence Center (AIC): For young people ages 14-23 in or formerly in foster care, providing support in education, employment, housing, and personal development.

“We’re excited to welcome students back for the 2025-26 school year on Monday, August 25,” said School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Tony B. Watlington, Sr., Ed.D. “What happens outside of the classroom in Extended Day/Extended Year, Out of School Time, sports, and other extracurricular activities complements what happens inside classrooms across the city. When students are exposed to various activities, engaged, and supported in all aspects of their lives, they are better equipped to accelerate academically.”

The City encourages all families to take advantage of these programs throughout the year. Together, we can ensure that every child in Philadelphia has the tools, support, and opportunities to thrive in school and beyond.

For more information about available programs, visit this website.

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