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Students and school leaders push council and state for more funds for Olney High athletic complex
Summary
Students, the athletic director and the principal of Olney High School urged city council to supplement School District funding so the renovation of the athletic complex can include modern fields and a track.
Students, school staff and Council Member Dr. Anthony Phillips urged Philadelphia City Council to help secure additional funding for a multi‑phase renovation of Olney High School's athletic complex.
Students Isis Rivera and Jocelyn (last name not specified) said they are grateful for the school district's initial commitment but told council that further investment is needed for later phases to reach "full potential." Jorge Gonzales, athletic director, described the project as a multi‑phase proposal that would meaningfully benefit youth sports and community use.
Michael Roth, principal of Olney High School, said the school district has proposed a $7,150,000 investment to build a new field house, add fencing and bleachers and make other initial improvements. "A vote for approval of this funding is scheduled to go in front of the school board this month," Roth said, and he asked council and the mayor to help secure an additional $10,000,000 to complete modern playing fields and a track so student athletes can compete safely. Roth said the school has shown academic gains under district control and that athletics are central to neighborhood investment.
Council Member Dr. Anthony Phillips described the field condition as unsafe and a public‑health concern and credited student advocacy for the district's proposed funding. Witnesses asked council to coordinate with state partners and the School District of Philadelphia to assemble the remaining resources.
No formal council appropriation was made during the meeting; witnesses said a school‑board vote on the district's initial $7,150,000 package was imminent.
