As a potential strike by San Francisco teachers approaches, Superintendent Maria Su has been granted emergency powers to manage the situation. This decision comes as the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) prepares for possible school closures, with the strike declaration potentially occurring as soon as March 4, 2024.
During a special school board meeting on Tuesday night, Su sought approval for an emergency resolution that would provide her with the authority to make crucial operational decisions if a strike takes place. The board approved the resolution with a narrow 4-3 vote. It allows Su to hire additional security staff and arrange for transportation, food, and emergency services. However, a last-minute amendment restricts her from hiring substitute teachers on a pay-per-day basis; any substitutes must already hold current contracts.
In the event of a strike, any personnel continuing to work would be required to cross a picket line. This raises concerns about how the district would maintain school operations if both teachers and principals choose to strike. The principal’s union, representing approximately 297 administrators, is scheduled to vote on whether to participate in a sympathy strike.
Su emphasized her commitment to “protect the welfare and safety of students” and the integrity of district property. The ongoing labor negotiations between the district and the teachers’ union have reached an impasse, with a fact-finding report from a neutral third party expected to be released soon. This report, while offering recommendations, is non-binding and could enable teachers to initiate a strike within 48 hours of its release.
In a press conference prior to the board meeting, Su expressed optimism about the negotiations, stating that conversations with the union have been constructive. She mentioned that the district had proposed a “stability package,” which includes a 6% salary increase for teachers over three years and fully paid family health benefits. However, the teachers’ union countered this narrative, asserting that they had not received any such offer from Su.
The financial implications of a strike could be significant. Su indicated that the district could lose between $7 million and $10 million per day due to funding being tied to student attendance. She has been in close communication with Mayor Daniel Lurie regarding the potential impact of the strike. If it occurs, it would mark the first teachers’ strike in San Francisco since 1979, when educators staged a six-week walkout.
“I will do everything I can to make sure we come back to the table,” Su stated, making a heartfelt appeal to union officials. “I have no desire to enact this resolution, but in order to be prepared, we need to do this.”
The situation remains fluid as both sides aim to reach a resolution before the potential strike date, impacting thousands of students and their families in San Francisco.
