How Philadelphia Students Are Progressing Academically

After years of unprecedented disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Philadelphia schools are starting to show encouraging signs of recovery. While challenges remain, recent district data suggests that students are steadily regaining academic momentum and that improvements in attendance and student engagement are helping create stronger learning environments. 

Math Scores are Improving 

One of the most promising indicators of recovery is student performance in mathematics. The percentage of students in grades 3–8 who scored proficient or advanced in math increased from 16.5% in 2021–22 to about 25% in 2024–25.¹ The upward trend represents meaningful progress as students continue to recover from pandemic-related learning loss. 

More students are Attending School Regularly 

Regular attendance is one of the strongest predictors of academic success. Philadelphia schools have been encouraging improvements in this area, with the percentage of students attending 90% or more of school days increasing from about 57% to over 61%.¹ Teacher attendance has also improved, providing students with more consistent instruction which helps maintain continuity throughout the school year. 

Fewer Students Are Dropping Out

There has been a decline in dropout rates across the district. More students are staying enrolled, allowing students to remain engaged in their education and move towards graduation.¹ Keeping students connected to school is an important step to improving long-term educational and career outcomes. 

What’s Driving these Improvements? 

District officials attribute the recent progress to targeted investments in teaching and learning. Philadelphia schools have adopted updated mathematics and English Language Arts curriculum that align with Pennsylvania state academic standards. Schools have also expanded tutoring opportunities and professional development for teachers.³ These initiatives are designed to strengthen foundational skills, address learning gaps, and provide students with additional support inside and outside the classroom. 

Pennsylvania has also introduced new Science, Technology & Engineering, Environmental Literacy & Sustainability (STEELS) standards.² These standards place a greater emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and applying knowledge to real-world situations rather than memorizing facts. By encouraging deeper learning and active participation in the classroom, the STEELS standards aim to better prepare students for success in college, future careers, and everyday life.²

Recovering from the pandemic is a long-term process and many students continue to need additional academic support. However, the data suggests that schools are moving in the right direction. 

How RISE Philadelphia is Helping

At RISE Philadelphia, we have seen firsthand how personalized academic support can transform a student’s confidence and performance. Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, our non-profit organization connects K-12 students in Philadelphia with undergraduate and graduate student volunteers who provide free, one-on-one virtual tutoring. Over the past year, we have provided more than 1,100 tutoring sessions to over 100 students across 18 schools. As Philadelphia schools continue their academic recovery, we are proud to partner with families and students by providing individualized support that aids their classroom learning. There are many ways to get involved in our organization. Learn more about becoming a RISE Philadelphia tutor here or support our mission through a financial contribution by following this link. 

Resources

1. Comber-Wilen, Violet. “Early Data Shows Progress in Math for Philadelphia Students, with Lots of Room for Overall Improvement.” Billy Penn, October 22, 2025.

2. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. “Pennsylvania’s Science, Technology & Engineering, Environmental Literacy & Sustainability (STEELS) Standards.” Pennsylvania Department of Education.

3. Redelmeier, Rebecca, and Carly Sitrin. “Preliminary Data Shows Philadelphia Students Have Higher Math Scores, Better Attendance.” Chalkbeat Philadelphia, October 9, 2025.