The City Council of Philadelphia recently honored Penn, among other area colleges, universities, and academic institutions, for participating in higher education partnerships with the city’s financially strapped school district.

Introduced by Councilman Curtis Jones and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell and sponsored by every Council member, the resolution noted that the school district has been “severely inhibited by budget cuts, layoffs, and school closings in recent years,” and recognized Penn as one of the institutions helping public school students further their  academic careers by pursuing higher education.

The University was praised for its support of Penn Alexander School and Lea School through afterschool programs, behavioral and social supports, and professional development offered by the Graduate School of Education. Penn was also acknowledged for its support for workforce development offered by the Netter Center for Community Partnerships, and for providing college preparatory services to high school students.

“[City Council] honors and recognizes the dedicated efforts of institutions of higher education working to improve the quality of education through the School District of Philadelphia and by increasing overall academic opportunities for the greater community by making higher education more accessible for all Philadelphians,” the resolution read.