Philadelphia Federation of Teachers

PFT Statement on Passage of FY2027 State Budget

June 22, 2026: PFT President Arthur G. Steinberg speaks at a press conference calling for more education funding in the state Capitol, alongside Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, Council President Kenyatta Johnson, and SDP leadership.

PHILADELPHIA (July 12, 2026) – Following is a statement from Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT Local 3) President Arthur G. Steinberg:

“We’re grateful for the steadfast leadership of Governor Shapiro, House Speaker McClinton, and Senate Democrats who are responsible for what is good and positive in this budget. More public school and special education funding, no increase in private school tax credits, expanded student teacher stipends, and a COLA for pre-Act 9 public employee retirees will strengthen long-underfunded school districts and the communities they serve.

“We’re glad to see the

File: PFT President Arthur Steinberg speaks at a press conference.

PHILADELPHIA (July 8, 2026) – Following is a statement from Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT Local 3) President Arthur G. Steinberg:

“On June 10th, Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington, Sr., announced that 340 classroom positions were being restored thanks to a budget agreement reached by Council President Kenyatta Johnson and Mayor Cherelle Parker. We applauded that announcement then, on behalf of our members and the affected school communities we serve.

“But nearly one month later, our members still have not received confirmation from the District that their positions are secure. A Zoom

Start the year with great classroom management

Join the PFT Health & Welfare Fund for a four-day PD session that will get you all set with managing your class for the upcoming school year.

Join the PFT Health & Welfare Fund for an intensive Praxis Prep Week designed just for School District of Philadelphia employees in emergency certification status or a Career Pathways program! This four-day Praxis PD series is designed to support educators preparing for Praxis 5511, 5154, 5155: Fundamental Subjects exam and similar tests.

PFT President Arthur G. Steinberg speaks at a press conference celebrating the restoration of 340 school staff positions outside of Council Chambers.

PHILADELPHIA (June 11, 2026) – Following is a statement from Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT Local 3) President Arthur G. Steinberg on the School District’s announcement that 340 classroom positions cut for the 2026-2027 academic year will be restored, following a school funding agreement struck by Mayor Cherelle Parker and Council President Kenyatta Johnson:

“The announcement late Wednesday by the Mayor, Council President, and Superintendent is an enormous victory for Philadelphia public school students. After a chaotic year marked by school closure announcements, persistent educator

PFT's analysis of school buildings to be closed under the District's Facilities Master Plan.

PHILADELPHIA (May 12, 2026) – The Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT Local 3) on Tuesday released analysis and alternative recommendations for public schools that are scheduled to close starting in 2027.

Led by PFT Director of Environmental Science Jerry Roseman and informed by input from PFT members, the reports found inconsistencies and inaccuracies in the School District of Philadelphia's stated rationales for closing public schools.

At a press event at Overbook Elementary on Tuesday, the PFT and school leaders pointed to strong community ties and walkability for young students as

PFT Statement on Passage of FY2027 State Budget

PFT Statement on School District Administrative Debacle

7/27-7/30: Start the Year With Great Classroom Management

8/3-8/6: Praxis Exam Preparation

PFT Statement on Restoration of 340 School Staff Cuts

PFT Releases Building Condition Analyses of Schools Targeted for Closure