Earlier this week, we joined public school parents and reform organizations across the city in calling on the School Reform Commission to put student needs ahead of employee seniority. Read more from the Inquirer and WHYY here.

Why is this reform so critical? The key to great schools is great teachers, and seniority too often means schools can’t hire the best teachers to meet the needs of students. We can’t continue to hold our students hostage to an outdated, ineffective policy like this one — it’s time for real reform.

What’s more, Governor Corbett has made it clear that the release of an additional $45 million in state funding to the District is dependent upon the implementation of significant reforms like this one. If the SRC acts to implement these changes, it will be a major step toward receiving this much-needed funding.

Enough is enough — as Maurice Hampton, public school father and School Advisory Council member, said, “After seven months and with millions of dollars hanging in the balance, it’s time for adults to do whatever they can to ensure teachers are assigned to schools and classes where they will be most effective.”

We agree with Maurice and thousands of other parents calling for this change and will continue urging leaders on both sides to do what’s right for children and families. Thanks for your continued support as we work to ensure that every student in Philadelphia can attend a great school.