As a potential strike looms, San Francisco Superintendent Maria Su has been granted emergency powers to address possible school closures. This decision follows a special meeting of the school board held on the evening of October 24, 2023, where Su sought approval for a resolution allowing her to make necessary operational decisions in the event of a strike by teachers, which could be announced as early as Monday.
The board approved the resolution by a narrow 4-3 vote. If teachers decide to walk out, Su will have the authority to hire additional security personnel and arrange for transportation, food, and emergency services. She indicated that many operations would rely on volunteers. The board did introduce a modification that restricts Su from hiring substitute teachers on a pay-by-day basis, meaning new hires would need to have existing contracts.
In the event that schools lack essential personnel to function, the resolution empowers Su to close schools indefinitely. The decision comes amid ongoing labor negotiations between the district and the teachers’ union, which have reached an impasse. If a strike occurs, security staff and substitute teachers who continue to work will be required to cross picket lines.
Responses to the potential strike are varied. The principal’s union, representing approximately 297 administrators, plans to vote on whether to hold a sympathy strike alongside the teachers. If both groups strike, the implications for school operations remain unclear. Su has emphasized her commitment to “protect the welfare and safety of students,” while also facing significant financial implications.
According to the district, if schools close due to the strike, it could result in losses of $7 million to $10 million daily, as funding is directly tied to student attendance. Su has been in regular contact with Mayor Daniel Lurie regarding the situation, acknowledging the potential impact of a strike, which would mark the first teachers’ strike in San Francisco since 1979.
In a press conference prior to the board meeting, Su expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, stating that “conversations have been good” and that the district is “really close” to a resolution. Last week, the district proposed a “stability package,” which included a six percent raise for teachers over three years and fully paid family health benefits. However, the teachers’ union countered that they had not received any formal offer.
A state-mandated fact-finding report, expected to be released soon, could provide recommendations for moving forward, but it will be non-binding. If the teachers proceed with a strike, they can initiate action within 48 hours after the report is published.
As the deadline approaches, Su’s plea for collaboration remains clear. “I will do everything I can to make sure we come back to the table,” she stated. “I have no desire to enact this resolution, but in order to be prepared, we need to do this.” The situation continues to unfold as both sides work towards a resolution that could avoid significant disruption to the educational system in San Francisco.
