We will keep bringing you education news, even if Pittsburgh Public does not want us to.

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Dear readers: Late last week, you may have heard the news that Pittsburgh Public Schools expects all students to return to school in person before the end of the school year. But it’s also possible you didn’t learn this vital news that so many have been waiting for.

We didn’t report it — not because we don’t think it’s important (we absolutely do) but because district leadership decided to only share this announcement with select media outlets. We learned of it by chance, seeing it reported elsewhere.

Turns out that Pittsburgh Public Schools is having invitation-only media briefings over Zoom. And we’re not invited.

The district surely knows we’re interested. Our K-12 education reporter, TyLisa C. Johnson, live-tweets ([link removed]) their hours-long public meetings; produces in-depth stories and briefs for the By the Book bulletins ([link removed]) ; recruits people in the district to write first-person essays; and makes open records requests to the district. Our “Screen Test” project launched today ([link removed]) is another sign of our commitment.
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So, because we were not included in those ‘exclusive’ media briefings, we can only assume the district doesn’t like our coverage. And why?

We ask tough questions on your behalf and report what we learn with no agenda other than to serve the public interest. And we provide space for students, parents, educators and advocates to share their experiences and concerns.

This isn’t just a media outlet complaining about being left out. This is a public agency depriving you of vital information about your children’s education and taxpayer dollars. It’s a bad move at any time but especially after the last year of a public health crisis that has led to an economic crisis and an education crisis.

PublicSource is going to continue to fight to bring you the news you need about education in Pittsburgh. Here’s how you can help:
* Check out our new “Screen Test” project ([link removed]) and share with people you know.
* Send us tips and story ideas. ([link removed])
* Please consider supporting our education reporting by giving today ([link removed]) .

Sincerely,

Halle Stockton ([link removed])
Managing editor, PublicSource
[email protected]

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