West Chester Sets Attendance Policy For Eagles Super Bowl Parade

WEST CHESTER, PA — Kids in the West Chester Area School District jumped to a false start if they thought they would get off of school in order to attend the Eagles victory parade in Philadelphia Thursday.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the school district said that they will not be closing.

"We’ve received a number of cleverly and strongly worded petitions from many of you, asking us to close school this Thursday so people can attend the Super Bowl victory parade in Philadelphia," Superintendent Jim Scanlon wrote. "I’m scratching my head as to why the parade is being held on a weekday instead of a weekend. Why should fans have to choose between work or school and the parade? Having gotten that off my chest, I want to congratulate the Eagles and all of their fans. I also want to let you know that we will be holding school on Thursday."

Scanlon said that the district had estimated about 2,000 West Chester students would go to the parade in Philadelphia, leaving, around 9,925 who would be attending school otherwise. Scanlon said that since a canceled school day would mean a make up day in June, and with more potential snow days on the horizon, it doesn't make sense to close.

"Thanks for your understanding as we make a decision that we know will be unpopular with many families. We look forward to watching the parade after we record it while we’re at school on Thursday," he wrote.

Students may miss school to attend parade with a note from their family.

Click here for full details on the parade, including start time, parking, road closures and SEPTA schedule changes.

Nearby districts like Philadelphia, Collingswood (New Jersey), and Upper Darby will be closed Thursday for the parade, while some, like Council Rock and North Penn, are allowing students to leave early with a note.

AP Photo/Matt Rourke