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 vacancies, and deep school staffing cuts, the PFT is thrilled and relieved to end this school year with optimism. Our position is consistent: Philly public schools must aim for growth and reject starvation. Students should be overwhelmed with opportunities, not told, ‘There isn’t enough,’ and, ‘You aren’t enough,’ by grown-ups in charge.
“Philly public school students deserve the world. Every elected official with power over the District’s fate must build on that basic fact – or we will never realize the academic achievement and student success that Philly kids are capable of.
“I want to thank Mayor Parker and Council President Johnson for showing leadership in reaching this 11th-hour accord. It’s gratifying to see them operating as a team for the benefit of our students.
“We at the PFT will savor the win, along with our coalition of public education advocates – which include sibling unions Unite Here Local 643, Teamsters Local 502 (CASA), and the School Police Association of Philadelphia; as well as organizations like Children First, Teach Plus PA, and Public Interest Law Center. Seeing 340 school staffing cuts restored is a huge organizing victory that ultimately benefits students. We will continue to work with Council, the Parker Administration, the District, and Board toward longer-term funding solutions that provide real certainty – and stability – to our students, school communities, and educators.”
