Sports, Music and Gifted Programs on Chopping Block in Philadelphia Public Schools

And You Thought the Public School Budget Was a Problem Before. Now, the Philadelphia School District must slash an additional $61 million in its budget. Spring sports, instrumental music and half of the District’s psychologists are all on the chopping block as the SRC frantically tries to fix the city’s financial woes. [Inquirer]

Neshaminy Teachers Head Back to School. The district’s teachers have returned to their classrooms, ending a nine-day strike. With school back in session, negotiations between the teachers union and the district can resume. [NBC Philadelphia]

The Flyers Fall to the Isles. Philly lost to the Islanders at home last night despite a great effort from Bob. [The 700 Level]

Montco Man Dies From Grand Canyon Fall. The body of a 41-year-old Montgomery County man—Glenside’s Peter Reichner—was found at the Grand Canyon last week. It appears that Reichner died from a fall. [NBC Philadelphia]

Police Nab 15-Year-Old Suspect in Beating of Veteran. The PPD has apprehended a 15-year-old suspect in the beating of a Vietnam War veteran in the city’s Olney section. An additional arrest is expected sometime today. [6 ABC]

Spags to the Saints. Former Eagles assistant coach Steve Spagnuolo won’t be returning to Philadelphia for next season. The recently-fired head coach of the St. Louis Rams has signed on to take over the defensive coordinator’s post in New Orleans. [Crossing Broad]