WHEREAS, Postsecondary education can provide important pathways to economic mobility, yet many students, particularly first-generation college students and students from low-income families, face barriers to researching, applying to, and enrolling in college; and
WHEREAS, In October 2026, the College Access and Success Ecosystem (CASE) will lead Philadelphia's College Awareness Month Campaign, including the "What's Your Plan?" campaign for the 2026-27 school year, with a focused effort on helping students explore and complete college applications; and
WHEREAS, This Citywide campaign aims to engage at least 20 high schools and more than 40 colleges and universities, with the goal of increasing the percentage of School District of Philadelphia students submitting at least one college application from 42 percent in the 2025-26 school year to 60 percent in the 2026-27 school year; and
WHEREAS, Key partners supporting this campaign include the Philadelphia Education Fund, the CASE Steering Committee, Temple University, and the Community College of Philadelphia, who will help coordinate college-fit workshops, citywide college fairs, application fee waivers, college and FAFSA application workshops, career exploration events, and resources for students and families; and
WHEREAS, The Philadelphia Education Fund has long served as a leader in college access in Philadelphia, providing one-on-one advising, college readiness workshops, recruiter sessions, and college visits through its College Access Program at partner high schools across the City; and
WHEREAS, Through initiatives including PhillyGoes2College, the Philadelphia Scholars Program, Fostering College Readiness, Spark Philadelphia, and Ignite STEM, the Philadelphia Education Fund provides Philadelphia students with college advising, financial support, career exposure, and other resources to help them prepare for and succeed in college and career; and
WHEREAS, Since 1990, the Philadelphia Education Fund's Philadelphia Scholars Program has awarded $18 million in scholarships to undergraduate students, with Philadelphia Scholars attending 40 colleges and universities across the country; and
WHEREAS, College Awareness Month provides an opportunity for Philadelphia students and families to learn more about college options, application requirements, financial aid, scholarships, and available support as students plan for life after high school; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby recognizes October as College Awareness Month and commends the Philadelphia Education Fund and the College Access and Success Ecosystem for their continued work to ensure Philadelphia students are informed, prepared, and supported throughout the college application and postsecondary planning process. Philadelphia City Council encourages Philadelphia students and families to use the month as an opportunity to explore postsecondary options, access available resources, and take meaningful steps toward their future goals.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Education Fund and the College Access and Success Ecosystem (CASE) as an expression of the admiration and appreciation of this legislative body for their continued commitment to expanding college access and ensuring Philadelphia students are informed, prepared, and supported in pursuing postsecondary education and future opportunities.
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