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The first day of public schools in Philly is Monday, so we’ve rounded up some of the major education stories to help you prepare for the 2026-2027 academic year.

• Asbestos shuts down Kensington High: Students are being temporarily relocated to Austin Meehan all the way in The Northeast. Students are expected to return to Kensington High in January following remediation, but parents are concerned about transportation in the meantime. The Philadelphia teachers union blames the district for poor oversight. [Fox29; WHYY]
• Where are the test scores? Philadelphia educators still haven’t received test scores from the last school year to help them prepare for their incoming classes. The district says the state’s release of the official results is “on hold.” This could disrupt class placements, require “alternative assessments,” and wreak havoc on the school selection process. [Chalkbeat Philadelphia]
• Measles cases persist: A new immunization dashboard shows that some Pennsylvania schools have vaccination rates far below the rate required to achieve strong herd immunity. There are nearly 300 measles cases statewide. [WHYY]
• I need yet another water bottle! Philly parents spend about $761 per family on back-to-school shopping — above the national average — mainly due to unplanned purchases that they say are influenced by their kids’ highly persuasive methods to splurge on shoes, tech, and supplies. [Axios]
• Looking for help with school supplies? Check out this calendar of ongoing events for free supply giveaways throughout Philly. [Chalkbeat Philadelphia]

Police are Seeking Suspect in a ‘Chucky’ Mask

Philadelphia police are looking for a male, believed to be between 16 and 20 years old, who has allegedly threatened and chased people near City Hall while filming the encounters on a phone and wearing a “Chucky-like” mask. Police are urging anyone with information to call 215-686-8477. [WPVI]

• On today’s City Cast Philly podcast, we’re discussing how the police department is planning to use artificial intelligence for 911 calls. We’re also discussing hidden cash around the city and if murals should be historic landmarks. [🎧 City Cast Philly]

Is This the End of Philly’s Family-Fun Restaurant Era?

Philly’s beloved old restaurants are closing or changing hands as longtime owners retire and few heirs are interested in taking over. Kelly’s Seafood is closing this month, ending three generations of family ownership. Other notable closings or owner changes include Steve Stein’s Famous Deli in The Northeast and McGlinchey’s in Center City. What’s behind the “gray wave” sweeping Philly’s food scene? [🔒 The Inquirer]

PA Pushes for New Rules to Protect Insects

Pennsylvania lawmakers are working on new ways to protect local insects, hoping to fill a big gap in state regulations. House Resolution 66 and other related bills aim to empower state agencies to protect at-risk land-dwelling bugs. If these measures pass, care for native plants would be prioritized and there’d be a boost in conservation efforts. [Grid Philly]

📣 City Cast Philly Neighbor Steve A. is shouting out Root to Fruit, a meal delivery service run by local chef Josh Broder. Steve loves it for three main reasons: “Local! Healthy! Delicious!”

Thanks, Steve! Want to join Steve and other Philadelphians in the coolest community around?! Become a City Cast Neighbor, where members get access to ✨ exclusive ✨ in-person events, podcast content, and guides to living the best Philly life.