37 schools targeted for closure in Philadelphia plan

News release: The Philadelphia School District has proposed closing 37 schools in 2013. Superintendent William R. Hite's plan is part of an effort to use school facilities and financial resources more efficiently. The plan calls for closing 22 elementary schools buildings, four middle schools buildings and 11 high schools buildings. The district says closing the facilities would increase its building utilization rate from 68 percent on average to nearly 80 percent. The city's School Reform Commission is expected to vote on the plan in March.

Earlier....from The Philadelphia Inquirer: Philadelphia School Superintendent William R. Hite Jr. is expected to announce a proposal to close 37 school buildings. Hite is recommending that about 20 elementary schools, a handful of middle schools, and about 10 high schools - shut their doors for good in June.