The List: 10 Heartbreaking #Philly1stDay Tweets

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Not so long ago, back-to-school was a time for nervous anticipation: Students made sure they sported the trendiest outfits and backpacks; parents exhaled a sigh of relief; and teachers inhaled the scent of fresh school supplies. Thanks to the school district’s funding crisis, however, this morning was different. We’ve been scanning the #philly1stday hashtag for tweets that provide some insight and perspective on how the crisis is translating to the classroom. Unfortunately, the lugubrious tone matches the weather.

1.

My #philly1stday: Going through the recycling bins at work looking for paper for my kid’s #PhillyEducation school. — Erin McL (@mclerin) September 9, 2013

2.

Teachers, school staff doing everything they can 2 give kids what they need on #Philly1stday despite cuts #PhillyEducation — Marcus Mrowka (@MarcusMrowka) September 9, 2013

3.

@MarcusMrowka Water’s on at Masterman but my 5th grader was advised not to risk drinking it — “white and foamy.” #Philly1stday — Catherine Collins (@tfortx) September 9, 2013

4.

No counselor @ Vare-Wash. Concerned parent said 8th grade son a bullying victim, no one to help w/high school applications. #Philly1stday — Zenovia Campbell (@zencampbell) September 9, 2013

5.

“I’m at lunch and there’s nowhere to sit because there is so many people.” Sharron, Ben Franklin HS #philly1stday #phillyeducation — Philly Student Union (@215studentunion) September 9, 2013

6.

Some parents dropped kids off at 7:25, but this year, school does not open until 8:25–no morning staffing. #Philly1stday #PhillyEducation — K.R. Luebbert (@teacherinphilly) September 9, 2013

7.

First day of school in Philly as many students will be attending new schools with less familiar faces #Philly1stday @PSNotebook — Isaac Riddle (@IsaacRiddle6) September 9, 2013

8.

already ran out of my own paper for copy machine! #philly1stday — stephanie silver (@mssilverfurness) September 9, 2013

9.

116 of 283 counselors returned 2 their schools. At small HS’s, like #BodineHS, the principal will b handling counselor duties #philly1stday — Tim Jerome (@TJeromeFutures) September 9, 2013

10.