San Francisco Teachers Strike Day 3: Schools Closed, Union Demands 9% Wage Increase

San Francisco schools remain shuttered for the third day as the city’s first teachers strike since 1979 continues, with negotiations between the district and union at a standstill. Superintendent Maria Su expressed frustration at union representatives for leaving Tuesday night without reviewing the district’s counterproposal, while teachers insist on fully funded family healthcare and a 9% wage increase. “We have no excuse for not being the best public education system in the state,” said an anonymous paraeducator, highlighting widespread educator dissatisfaction. District staff and Mayor Daniel Lurie remain at the bargaining table, seeking resolution on wages, healthcare, special education, and working conditions amid rising public attention. Reported by San Francisco Newsroom via missionlocal.

Strike Day 3: Teachers Rally at Hoover and Ocean Beach

On Wednesday morning, over 100 educators gathered at Herbert Hoover Middle School, picket signs in hand, chanting and rallying support. Jeykel Mairena, an eighth-grade U.S. History teacher, led the crowd. “They have money for everything. We are not asking for much at the end of the day. All we’re asking for is a fair contract,” Mairena said. Educators emphasized the increasing workload, limited prep time for AP classes, and insufficient special education resources. Security personnel hired by the district offered assistance, but teachers highlighted the irony of funding private security while salary demands remain unmet.

Meanwhile, thousands joined a “Human Banner” demonstration at Ocean Beach, spelling out “For Our Students Strike” on the sand despite heavy rain and wind. Teachers, students, and community members marched to the War Memorial Opera House for a 5 p.m. action, signaling citywide solidarity and growing public attention.

District Counteroffers and Union Demands

The district has offered a 6% wage increase over two years for certificated teachers, with a pause in sabbaticals and reduced AP prep time, alongside 80% healthcare coverage for dependents. A special working group will replace the prior pilot program for enhanced special education support, including a $5,000 stipend. However, the union insists on baseline staffing for all schools and fully funded family healthcare, with a 9% wage increase as non-negotiable.

Superintendent Su stressed financial constraints, warning that meeting union demands with one-time reserve funds could destabilize the district. Nevertheless, she confirmed that all options are under consideration as negotiations continue, while both sides insist on the “urgency” of reaching an agreement that prioritizes students.

Community Support Bolsters Strike Momentum

Support from parents, alumni, and local commuters has energized educators, reinforcing the perception that demands are fundamental to maintaining quality education. “All of your support means so much and is what’s keeping us going,” said a union bargaining team member at Hoover, addressing the crowd. Amid chants, music, and even Santa Claus appearances at Ocean Beach, the demonstration highlighted the city’s unified stance for fair compensation, adequate resources, and improved public education standards.

As talks remain unresolved, educators signal continued action across San Francisco, emphasizing both solidarity and determination for systemic change in the district’s approach to staffing, resources, and compensation.

San Francisco News keeps the city, the Bay Area and the wider world informed with clear, useful reporting on what matters: SFUSD Teachers Strike 2026: Schools Closed in San Francisco, What Families Need to Know