PHILADELPHIA (August 24, 2025) – This evening, less than one day before students return to school, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT Local 3) and the School District of Philadelphia reached a historic tentative contract agreement.
“The PFT is thrilled that we have been able to reach a tentative agreement with the School District of Philadelphia on a three-year pact ensuring that school will open on time, as well as three years of labor peace,” said PFT President Arthur G. Steinberg. “This contract recognizes the hard work and dedication our members bring to the district and allows them to have peace of mind that they will be able to provide for their families while continuing to educate the children of the School District of Philadelphia.”
“We are pleased that we have reached a tentative three year agreement that both honors the hard work of our educators and maintains our record of strong financial stewardship,” said Superintendent Tony B. Watlington, Sr., Ed.D. “Five decades of research has shown us — that highly qualified, well-supported, and stable teachers over time are the number one factor in accelerating student achievement, and as we begin the new school year, this contract gives us stability, clarity, and momentum to continue working in partnership with the PFT and to further implement our five year strategic plan, Accelerate Philly. We are on our way to becoming the fastest improving, large urban school district in the nation.”
Additional details about the tentative agreement will be provided to the media in the coming days.
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The Philadelphia Federation of Teachers represents 14,000 education professionals, including teachers, librarians, school nurses, counselors, psychologists, social workers, therapists, secretaries, paraprofessionals, classroom assistants, non-teaching assistants, supportive services assistants, Head Start/Comprehensive Early Learning Center and Bright Futures teachers and staff, food service managers, and professional and technical employees.