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Understanding the challenges created by COVID-19, Philadelphia Federation of Teachers President Jerry Jordan says he offered to extend the teachers' contract for a year, if it included a raise in base pay and teacher “step” increases for longevity.
Jordan told reporters the district rejected that idea and insisted that any raises be contingent on the union agreeing to the plan to reopen school buildings after a virtual start.
“In the last week, the district said they refused to engage in any discussion regarding wages until such time as the PFT agreed to a reopening plan," he said.
Jordan accused the School District of trying to “shake down” his 13,000 members.
“And I won’t allow it," he said.
He says his members are concerned about reopening buildings without adequate ventilation. The rank-and-file agreed to give him two weeks to continue negotiations.
“We know money’s real hard right now on everybody, but what we do as essential personnel, we believe we’re entitled to some compensation," Bennett said.
The district begins its school year Wednesday with all-virtual classes.