UPDATE: Teachers in the San Francisco Unified School District are set to **strike starting Monday, October 30, 2023**, after negotiations failed over the weekend. Despite city leaders pleading for a **72-hour pause** in the strike, the United Educators of San Francisco union’s demands remain unmet, leading to this urgent action.
Negotiations lasted nearly **12 hours** on Saturday, with no agreement reached, aside from a tentative concession aimed at protecting undocumented students. The union has insisted on critical improvements, including **fully-funded family healthcare**, salary increases, and better support for special education services. Union president Cassondra Curiel stated, “We have made it very clear that our demands are… salary increases that do not come at the cost of concessions or takeaways.”
The cost of the union’s demands is estimated at around **$35 million**, a fraction of the funds allocated to the San Francisco Police Department, highlighting the disparity in budget priorities within the city. As it stands, teachers earn an average starting salary of **$79,000**, significantly lower than the **$119,000** beginning salary for new police officers, who also receive comprehensive healthcare coverage while teachers contribute around **5%** of their income towards their health insurance.
In response to the looming strike, San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi have urged the union to reconsider their decision in the interest of keeping schools open. However, the union remains resolute, stating that a single administrator cannot ensure a safe school environment.
Additionally, principals, custodians, and other school staff are expected to join the strike, as indicated by Anna Klafter, president of the United Administrators of San Francisco. “A single administrator alone in a school building does not constitute a functioning or safe school environment,” Klafter emphasized.
In a confusing move, the school district sent emails assigning staff to various school sites, a tactic perceived as an attempt to undermine the strike. Many staff members have expressed their determination not to cross the picket line, viewing this action as disrespectful and embarrassing.
Amidst the strike, the district plans to provide essential services for students, including free breakfast and lunch, childcare for younger children, and independent study packets. The San Francisco Department of Children, Youth and Their Families will also assist in offering meals during the strike, while local organizations collaborate with Superintendent Maria Su to support students academically and recreationally.
Families and community members are encouraged to stay updated as negotiations resume at **noon on Monday**. The outcome will be critical in determining whether the strike will continue or if an agreement can be reached that addresses the educators’ pressing needs.
This developing story highlights the ongoing struggle for educational equity and the impact on students, families, and the broader San Francisco community. As tensions rise, many are left wondering what the future holds for education in the city.
