They Dropped Out… Because They Could: Reclaiming Purpose in Public Education

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Tomas Hanna, the Associate Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, to explore the transformative initiatives reshaping public education. We delve into the district's strategic plan, Accelerate Philly, aimed at providing students with choices and opportunities to pursue their passions. Tomas shares insights on the importance of creating welcoming school environments and building strong relationships to keep students engaged. We discuss innovative programs like Hazel Health and the ninth-grade academies that support student success and retention. Discover how Philadelphia is reducing dropout rates and empowering students with skills for the future. Join us as we uncover the inspiring stories and strategies that are helping students reclaim their purpose in education.

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How long is this episode of Brighter Together?

This episode is 33 minutes long.

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This episode was published on July 3, 2025.

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