District officials have warned that they would cut some nurses, librarians and counselors, as well as busing and other areas, without the additional funding.
Even with the funds, the budget calls for nearly $100 million in cuts, including a 15 percent reduction in central office staff and fewer contracts for outside services.
For the first time yesterday, the district detailed cuts in contracts, which are almost sure to bring more public backlash. Among them are the International Baccaulaureate program at elementary schools (the high school program remains intact) and two supplementary arts programs: the Philadelphia arts initiative, which includes students in a project to beautify schools with murals, and another program that brings professional artists into schools. It also would end a $30,000 contract with Dr. Paul Fink, who advises the district on students with behavioral problems - a growing group.
District officials say they will seek outside funding for some of the affected programs.
The budget, which increases spending by less than 3 percent, also leaves no reserve fund for emergencies.
Commissioners pledged to seek financial help from the state. "I stand ready to go to Harrisburg with you . . . to carry this out, to make our case in a responsible, supportive way," Commissioner Sandra Dungee Glenn told dozens of parents and education advocates who filled the district's auditorium at 440 N. Broad St. "This is not going to end here today."
Glenn and Commission Chairman James Nevels also said they planned to ask the state for even more revenue than the $54 million - enough to add 150 teaching positions, which would allow the district to lower class size. The positions are being eliminated because of a drop in enrollment caused in part by the growth of students in charter schools.
"This is a daunting task," Nevels acknowledged.
Reaction to the prospect of more state funding was mixed among state legislature leaders.
