Schools Superintendent Dr. William Hite talked about his decision to propose the closings of 37 schools at South Philadelphia High School Saturday.
One by one, community members stood up to address their issues with the plan.
Among them were members of the Pennsport Civic Association.
They say the proposal robs them of an elementary school for their youngest students.
"The city of Philadelphia is a city of communities, and they are stealing our sense of community by not allowing us to have a school within our boundaries," said Jim Moylan, Pennsport Civic Association.
Dr. Hite says the plan will improve student's academic outcomes and ensure sustainability for the district.
The cuts have to be approved by the school reform commission.
