Philadelphia’s school board voted — over some objections — to explore giving its surplus buildings to the city. The vote does not bind the district to hand anything over, but it opens the door to transferring properties in accordance with the wishes of Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, who has promised her administration will build or restore 30,000 units of housing during her first term. Exactly how many vacant buildings the district is contemplating giving to the city is not clear; the board did not vote on a list of schools, though officials have said in prior months the number of surplus schools is about 20. A school board spokesperson has said the list is still subject to internal discussion. School Board President Reginald Streater has said the city partnership makes sense and would allow the district to focus on education, while relying on the city’s real estate expertise. The buildings all have carrying costs too, which the city would assume.
Source: Philadelphia Inquirer; 12/11/2025