Philadelphia Teachers Union Prepares for Strike as Budget Issues Loom
As the start of the school year approaches on August 25, 2023, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT) is poised to strike while negotiating a new contract with the School District of Philadelphia. The union, representing approximately 14,000 members, is facing unresolved issues related to Pennsylvania’s state budget, which remains a barrier to reaching an agreement.
The current contract between the PFT and the school district expires at the end of this month. Monique Braxton, spokesperson for the Philadelphia school district, expressed optimism about reaching a deal. “We look forward to working with the PFT on a proposal that honors the hard work of our educators,” she stated. She emphasized that the district highly values its teachers and support staff and is committed to good faith negotiations.
Despite some progress in discussions, PFT President Arthur Steinberg noted that the school district has been slow to address critical issues affecting working conditions. “Amid a district-wide staff shortage that left teachers, counselors, classroom assistants, and many other educational professionals juggling duties beyond our own job descriptions, the district must make changes that both slow attrition of burned-out employees and attract teachers and specialists to Philadelphia public schools,” he said.
The PFT has been careful about disclosing its specific demands. However, it has made it clear that it seeks to expand the paraprofessional pathway program, which assists support staff in becoming teachers. The union is also advocating for lower class sizes, limitations on caseloads for counselors and nurses, and the elimination of penalties for employees using sick leave.
The potential for a strike is complicated by the ongoing state budget impasse. Initially due by June 30, the budget remains unresolved, causing uncertainty for the school district. Delays in funding could significantly impact operations, as millions of dollars are currently unavailable. Additionally, potential cutbacks by SEPTA, the regional transit authority, could hinder students’ ability to travel to and from school, further complicating the start of the academic year.
In June, an overwhelming 94% of PFT members voted to authorize a strike if necessary. Following this vote, union members, along with Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington Sr. and other school district officials, visited the state capital in Harrisburg, advocating for the passage of the budget and fair funding for schools.
The financial challenges facing the district are significant. It is currently grappling with a deficit exceeding $300 million, prompting Superintendent Watlington to allocate nearly 40% of its rainy-day fund for the fiscal year 2026. Mayor Cherelle Parker’s office has not provided comments on the negotiations. In July, Parker’s administration reached an agreement with District Council 47, which represents white-collar workers, following a contentious strike by District Council 33, representing blue-collar workers. That strike lasted just over a week, resulting in substantial disruptions throughout the city.
Both unions ultimately settled for raises averaging around 3% annually, along with benefits such as longevity clauses that increase pay for seasoned workers and bonuses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, wages and salaries for civilian workers rose by 3.6% in the fiscal year ending June 30.
For the 2024-25 school year, the PFT salary schedule indicates that teachers, dental hygienists, nurses, and other professionals start at approximately $54,146 annually, with the potential to earn up to $103,512 based on experience and educational qualifications. Non-teaching assistants begin at about $24,648, with the possibility of reaching $49,346.
As the situation unfolds, the PFT has organized several strike preparation events across the city this month, indicating its readiness for further action if negotiations do not yield a satisfactory outcome. The impending school year thus carries significant uncertainty for both educators and students in Philadelphia.
