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11 things to know about a possible Pittsburgh Public Schools teacher strike

(File photo)

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers announced its intention to go on strike Friday, Mar. 2 if an agreement on a new contract isn't reached with Pittsburgh Public Schools.

STORY: Impact of possible teacher strike on Pittsburgh, schools, families

Here are 11 things you need to know about the potential strike:

1. 25,000 students would be impacted.

  • That's how many students attend the 54 schools in the district. All of them would be blocked from attending school if the strike happens.

2. The PFT gave more notice than required.

  • According to Pennsylvania law, the teachers' union needs to give 48 hours notice before going on strike. The Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers gave 96 hours notice.

STORY: Parents scramble to find child care as Pittsburgh teachers plan strike

3. The extra time helps more than just negotiators.

  • Waiting until Friday to go on strike gives the union and Pittsburgh Public Schools more time to reach an agreement on a new contract. It also gives parents more time to find potential child care for their children

4. How close the two sides? Depends on who you talk to.

  • Superintendent Dr. Anthony Hamlet has said several times the two sides are close. In an interview with Channel 11 today, he said the only issue on the bargaining table is whether principals should be able to determine teacher assignments.
  • In a statement this morning, the PFT said several other issues like salary, health care and transfers also remain.

5. The two sides will continue negotiating.

  • Hamlet said he's had several "sidebar discussions" with union leaders over the last few days. At least one more formal bargaining session is expected to be set this week. That will be determined by the mediator.

6. Pittsburgh hasn't seen a teacher strike in more than four decades.

  • The last teachers strike happened in 1975 and lasted for the entire month of December. A court order ended that strike.

7. A strike could have a big impact outside the classroom.

  • Many students receive free or reduced meals at school, which would stop if a strike occurs. Pittsburgh Public Schools is preparing locations throughout the city where students will still be able to receive meals.

8. The city has no involvement in the negotiations.

  • Mayor Bill Peduto has put public pressure on both sides to get a deal done and avoid a strike. However, the mayor made it clear the district did not accept his offer to be involved in the negotiations.

9. The length of a strike would be capped.

  • If a strike does happen, the Pennsylvania Department or Education would determine how long teachers can be out of the classroom. School districts and teachers are legally required to complete 180 days of instruction before June 15.

10. The strike would include more than just teachers.

  • The PFT also represents paraprofessional and technical clerical workers who will strike if a deal isn't reached.

11. The United Way, Food Bank and other nonprofits are offering to help.

  • Several non-profit organizations in Pittsburgh have offered to help feed students and find child care if a strike happens.
 

Cox Media Group

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