Ben Shuldiner seeks to avoid teacher strike by highlighting budget constraints and salary details
Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Ben Shuldiner issued a public address to clarify the district's financial position during the final hours of contract negotiations with the Seattle Education Association. The district faces a budget shortfall of nearly $100 million, which Shuldiner noted makes it difficult to provide larger raises. He proposed an 8.8% salary increase over three years, noting that the majority of teachers earn a base pay of approximately $142,000 when including various incentives and extra days. Shuldiner also detailed a plan to reorganize special education services, aiming to integrate students into their neighborhood schools rather than sending them to dedicated programs. While the union and district have agreed on the goal of starting the school year on Wednesday, a major sticking point remains regarding student-teacher ratios in special education classes. The Seattle Education Association members will rally on Tuesday at 5 p.m. to advocate for a student-focused contract. If a deal is not reached by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, teachers will walk out on the first day of school.
Sources
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‘We’re broke.’ Seattle schools superintendent pleads with teachers union for school to start on time
KUOW
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'The teachers should sign the contract and get back to class': Jake, Spike react after Seattle superintendent reveals teacher pay
MyNorthwest.com
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TEACHER TALKS: Union reports ‘promising progress’ in marathon negotiations; district briefing at 3 pm
West Seattle Blog...