PHILADELPHIA (September 25, 2025) – Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT Local 3) President Arthur G. Steinberg on Thursday issued the following statement on the Board of Education's vote to extend the contract of Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington through June 30, 2030:
"At a time of declining enrollment and political turmoil surrounding school districts across the country, Philly public schools are attracting students and enjoying deep support in their communities. This achievement is the direct result of the labor and dedication of the nearly 14,000 members of PFT Local 3 – and to the remarkably recent development of having a top administrator who would not hesitate to agree.
"For the first time in a very long time, there is stability in School District leadership and an alignment in values. Superintendent Watlington has demonstrated his respect for our members in the only way that matters: a strong, on-time labor contract. For veteran Philly public educators like myself who endured politicized, anti-educator, and anti-labor leadership under the SRC, the respect and alignment on priorities such as state funding and improvement of staff hiring and retention are a long-fought achievement.
"While not diminishing the real threat posed by political attacks on public schools, nor the PFT's ongoing challenges with District administration, I look forward to continuing to build on a productive and mutually respectful working relationship with Superintendent Watlington."
