Philadelphia teachers union votes to authorize strike amid contract negotiations

The Philadelphia Federation of Teachers voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike as contract negotiations with the School District of Philadelphia progress. A strong 94% of union members supported the decision, enabling the option to strike if a new agreement is not reached by August 31, 2025. Key demands from the union include increasing pay scales to attract talented educators, reducing class sizes, and improving conditions for support staff. The current sick day policy, which penalizes teachers for using their allotted days, is also on the bargaining table. Union President Arthur Steinberg highlighted that while progress has been made, the district's response to essential demands has been sluggish.

The district expressed optimism about finalizing a new contract before the school year starts on August 25. The upcoming academic year sees staff returning from summer break on August 18. This strike authorization is the first since 2000, reflecting significant labor tensions within the district.