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One of at least six unusable classrooms at Vare-Washington Elementary due to poor building conditions following last weekend's snow storm.

PHILADELPHIA (January 29, 2026) –  Following a half school day of treacherous commutes and dangerous building conditions, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers on Thursday urged the School District of Philadelphia to return to remote learning on Friday.

PFT President Arthur G. Steinberg said in a statement:

"On behalf of the more than 14,000 educators we represent, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers calls on the School District to return to remote instruction on Friday, where the forecasted high temperature is 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

"As educators, our members regularly report to work

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ICE OUT OF OUR SCHOOLS

PHILADELPHIA (January 29, 2026) – The Philadelphia Federation of Teachers on Thursday urged City Council to prioritize passage of the ICE OUT legislative package in order to protect students and families from violence and brutality by federal agents.

“Philadelphia educators are watching in horror as federal agencies invade once-peaceful communities in Minnesota and across the country, making daily life including schooling untenable. The terror and trauma being inflicted on students, including those most vulnerable to racism and abuse, is sickening to witness. At the same time, we are in awe of

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PFT President Arthur Steinberg speaks at a press conference

PHILADELPHIA (January 22, 2026) – Following is a statement from Philadelphia Federation of Teachers President Arthur G. Steinberg on the School District of Philadelphia’s proposal to close 20 schools and merge six schools:

“After months of false starts and poorly advertised and attended ‘community meetings,’ the School District of Philadelphia has released its long-delayed school closure and consolidation plan. The concerns of Philadelphia Federation of Teachers members, as well as families and neighbors, should by now be clearly understood by every decision-maker involved.

“We demand

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Foundations First

Join the PFT Health & Welfare Fund for a professional development series designed to support educators preparing for the Praxis 5511, 5154, 5155: Fundamental Subjects exam and similar tests! This workshop series focuses on building foundational understanding and confidence in science and social studies, with practical strategies, guided practice, and peer collaboration. This is not a full content test prep, but a targeted support series to help you think strategically, clarify key concepts, and move one step closer to certification success. 

February 21 & 28

9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Register: https

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PFT President Arthur Steinberg speaks at a rally for fair education funding in Harrisburg.

PHILADELPHIA (November 12, 2025) – Following is a statement from Philadelphia Federation of Teachers President Arthur G. Steinberg on passage of Pennsylvania’s FY2026 budget:

“After an embarrassing and painful four-plus months of gridlock in Harrisburg that forced school districts including Philadelphia’s to take on massive debt just to keep the lights on, I’m relieved that Governor Shapiro and legislative leaders in Harrisburg finally reached an agreement on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget.

“On behalf of the 14,000 educators represented by PFT Local 3, I’m incredibly grateful to the Democratic

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retro pay

Follow these instructions to calculate the retroactive pay you are owed by The School District of Philadelphia under our new CBA:

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