Investing in the Future: Why SF’s School Salary Negotiations Matter to All

In San Francisco, a not so quiet battle is unfolding that has far-reaching implications for everyone, regardless of whether you have children. The salary negotiations for the San Francisco Unified School District may seem like a localized issue, but they hold the power to shape the city’s future, impact its workforce, and make a profound statement about society’s priorities.

Here are three reasons why everyone should care about these negotiations.

1. A Community’s Strength Lies in its Diversity:

San Francisco’s vitality is woven through the contributions of diverse individuals, spanning from business owners to dedicated bus drivers. Yet, it’s important to acknowledge that these individuals are united by their common interest in the education system. Countless small business owners and indispensable service providers, even those behind your morning coffee or your city commute, are parents to public school students. The caliber of education distinctly shapes their families’ lives, and a severe teacher shortage, driven by educators departing due to unaffordability, directly affects the children of these workers. Consequently, this crisis is not only eroding the educational landscape but also threatens the very fabric of the city itself. To nurture a thriving metropolis, we must channel resources into public education.

2. Nurturing Future Leaders:

The children in San Francisco’s public schools are not just students; they are the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and change-makers. The skills they develop today will shape the city’s trajectory tomorrow. High-quality education is the cornerstone of their growth, and it depends heavily on dedicated teachers. However, attracting and retaining exceptional educators is challenging when the cost of living is soaring. Adequate compensation enables teachers to remain committed to their craft and stay in the city where they teach. When educators can afford to live where they work, they build lasting connections with students, fostering an environment of stability and mentorship that is invaluable for the development of future city leaders.

3. Valuing the Complexity of Teaching: 

Teaching is an intricate art, demanding a deep understanding of pedagogy, psychology, and communication. 

Yet, the complexity of this profession often goes under appreciated by the general population. This misperception trickles down to salary discussions. In reality, effective teaching requires creativity, adaptability, empathy, and an ongoing commitment to professional growth. We entrust teachers with the monumental task of shaping young minds and preparing them for an ever-evolving world. Recognizing and rewarding the complexities of this profession sends a powerful message: education matters, and those who dedicate their lives to it deserve to be compensated accordingly.

Investing in the financial well-being of teachers not only respects their expertise but also lays the foundation for a progressive society. Adequate compensation acknowledges the immense societal value teachers bring. It’s a step toward attracting the best minds to the profession, ensuring that our students receive the education they deserve.

The salary negotiations for San Francisco’s teachers are not just about numbers on a spreadsheet. They represent a reflection of our priorities as a community and as a society. They embody the value we place on our children’s future, on the vibrancy of our city’s workforce, and on the intellectual richness of our shared environment. As residents of this city, it’s in our collective interest to champion the cause of fair compensation for educators. Our support in these negotiations is an investment in the prosperity, diversity, and intellectual legacy of San Francisco.

For now, please follow @unitededucatorsofsf on IG for updates on rallies or, via Facebook, and Twitter.

Join your SFUSD and UESF colleagues in these demonstrations. Our collective strength is undeniable. While none of us wishes to resort to a strike, it’s essential to know that a strike vote has been initiated within the union. On October 11th UESF members vote to authorize a strike in response to the district’s continued inadequate proposals during negotiations.