Philadelphia students are experiencing delays and longer commutes to school due to SEPTA transportation cuts. 

Families, teachers, and students in the Philadelphia school district heavily rely on SEPTA for transportation to and from school. These cuts are causing major challenges and frustrations across the city. 

What is Happening with SEPTA Service Cuts?

The Pennsylvania state legislature failed to secure funding to cover SEPTA’s $213 million budget deficit before the 2025 school year. 

As a result, there have been 32 bus route eliminations, 88 bus route reductions, 16 shortened bus routes, and increased fares. The cuts began on August 24, 2025, the day before Philadelphia students started classes. 

The Impact on Philly Schools and Students

Philadelphia students are greatly impacted by SEPTA cuts. Students will face numerous challenges, such as:

• Earlier wake-ups 
• Walking longer distances
• Overcrowded buses 
• Late school arrivals 
• Frustration and irritability 
• Increased absences 
• Decreased motivation 

Nearly 200,000 students in Philadelphia rely on SEPTA as their main source of transportation. Every one in three SEPTA riders in the early morning is a student commuting to school. With bus route eliminations and overcrowded buses, students may feel stressed and tired before the school day even begins. 

Transportation issues can make it harder for students to remain consistent with schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and social responsibilities. Philadelphia teachers and staff also experience added pressure and stress due to students’ late arrivals and missed classes.

School District Response to SEPTA Transportation Cuts

Philadelphia School District Superintendent Tony Watlington has acknowledged how SEPTA cuts could impact students’ attendance. He says students will not be penalized for being late because of transportation issues as long as they have a valid note from a parent or guardian. 

The school district encourages families to carpool whenever possible. There’s also a Parent Flat Rate Program that provides families with $300 per month to transport their children to and from school. 

Looking Forward

Effective January 2026, there will be a 9 pm curfew on all metro and regional rails, as well as additional 25% service cuts. If permanent funding isn’t established, the SEPTA funding crisis will continue, thus causing more cuts to the system. 

It’s reported that SEPTA will restore select bus routes using $135 million from a transit subsidy in the city’s 2026 budget. This will help ensure students have reliable transportation to school and resolve issues with student attendance.

Lead photo courtesy of SEPTA.