Council honors School District and private partners for driver's education program for CTE students

Philadelphia City Council on Thursday adopted a resolution commending the School District of Philadelphia and private partners — including the HRP Group, Arco Design Build, Clayco and the General Building Contractors Association — for funding a pilot driver's education program for career and technical education (CTE) students.

Councilmember Dr. Anthony Phillips and other members recognized the program during a ceremonial presentation that included School District Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington and students who have participated. Watlington said the pilot is part of the district's five‑year plan, Accelerate Philly, and that “75 students in the construction and auto programs have completed their driver's education program, and 50 students are in the hopper getting their driver's permit.” He added that partners have provided funding for permits and connected students with licensed driving schools.

Speakers at the podium emphasized the link between licensing and job readiness: CTE construction and transportation jobs frequently require a valid driver's license to operate equipment or travel to worksites. The resolution thanks the School District and the private partners for reducing barriers to workforce entry for more than 200 graduating students, as stated in the resolution text.

The measure is ceremonial (an engrossed copy was to be presented to the School District and participating companies) and does not include funding or a mandate; sponsors framed it as recognition of public‑private collaboration to improve youth career pathways.