Dispute Brews Over How to Curb Violence in Phila. Schools

by KYW's Mike DeNardo

The state education secretary has issued his own version of a report that blasts the safety of Philadelphia schools.

Education secretary Gerald Zahorchak (right) says the number of serious incidents in Philadelphia schools remains unacceptably high. He ripped a draft report by Philadelphia's Safe Schools advocate Jack Stollsteimer, says education department spokeswoman Sheila Ballen:

"It just would be a great disservice to all concerned if people were led to believe that the information released in the draft is accurate. Because it's not."

Stollsteimer says Philadelphia is violating the law by not expelling students who bring weapons to school:

"When you don't enforce your own disciplinary rules, you let a culture of lawlessness prevail. And that's what's happening at too many schools in this district."

Zahorchak made his comments in a letter to incoming Philadelphia CEO Arlene Ackermsn.