School District of Philadelphia open today despite SEPTA strike

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The School District of Philadelphia remained open Tuesday, despite the SEPTA strike that left thousands of students in need of a ride to class.

Here is the information as released by officials:

SCHOOL HOURS: All schools, offices, and support facilities will maintain regular hours.

"We understand the strike would cause those who normally use public transportation to find alternatives. At the same time it is important that we continue the regular school schedule for children," the district said in a statement.

This means all employees are required to report to work and all students should attend school according to normal schedules, the district said.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE: Students who normally use SEPTA, and are unable to attend school due to lack of transportation will be marked excused absence. A note from the parent or guardian will be required. Additionally, students who do not arrive on time, will not be marked late unless the Principal determines that the lateness is not due to the SEPTA strike.

Families are welcome and encouraged to contact their child's school for more school-specific information, officials said.

SCHOOL CALENDAR: No School District academic calendar events will be changed as a result of the strike. For example, school selection closes November 14 and we will continue to accept applications until that date. Please be sure to note this and meet any upcoming deadlines.

BUS SERVICE: All regular yellow bus services will maintain normal schedules, but some delays may be expected.

With regard to the status of the SEPTA service interruption, please continue to check the District Website regularly. For more information please email transoperations@philasd.org or call 215-400-4315. The District's Facebook and Twitter accounts will also have up to the minute information.

For Parents:

The following information may be helpful during this time.

Letter from Dr. Hite and FAQs

Letter from Dr. Hite and FAQs (Spanish)

Letter from Dr. Hite and FAQs (Chinese)

Letter from Dr. Hite and FAQs (Vietnamese)

Letter from Dr. Hite and FAQs (Albanian)

Letter from Dr. Hite and FAQs (Arabic)

Letter from Dr. Hite and FAQs (French)

Letter from Dr. Hite and FAQs (Khmer)