SPS and SEA Begin Bargaining for 2022-23

Bargaining Update

Seattle Public Schools (SPS) began bargaining with the Seattle Education Association (SEA) on June 6. This process will negotiate a renewal of the SPS educators’ contract for the 2022-23 school year.

At SPS, we base our bargaining goals on the needs of students, teachers, and the community we serve. We are committed to making our schools safe and welcoming for everyone.

In this bargaining process, we bring a shared vision for teaching and learning. We want to ensure that every student – regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status, language proficiency, learning style, disability or zip code – achieves their highest potential, and every teacher receives the support they need to guide them.

This year, the district’s priorities include:

• Ensuring schools and workspaces remain safe;
• Working together for racial equity across the district to ensure students furthest from educational justice have the support and resources they need to succeed;
• Increasing inclusive education for students with cognitive and physical challenges, as well as students learning English for the first time;
• Basing staff placement on student needs;
• Maintaining staff levels throughout the year and minimizing disruptions around school and holiday breaks;
• Providing high-quality educational standards, competitive pay, and improved professional development opportunities.
• Attracting and retaining quality educators from diverse backgrounds.

We will be working together with SEA over the next several months to craft a contract that supports educators, improves student outcomes, and demonstrates our shared commitment to providing our students with a world-class education system.

We look forward to starting school on time and in person on Sept. 7, 2022.