Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Ben Shuldiner issued a stark warning to the Seattle Education Association (SEA) as the new school year approaches. In a letter posted Sunday, Shuldiner said the district is “broke” and that a strike would be entirely up to the union, not a forced action by the district.
Budget shortfall drives tension
KOMO News reported that Seattle Public Schools faces a budget gap of roughly $100 million. The shortfall stems from declining enrollment—about 5,000 fewer students than in 2019—and previous cost‑cutting attempts, including a failed school‑closure plan.
Shuldiner, who was appointed in November, emphasized fiscal prudence, stating, “If we had the money, I would love to give it to everybody. But the problem is we don’t.” He reiterated the district’s commitment to honor the existing contract and to provide retroactive pay if a new agreement is reached without a strike.
Union’s strike authorization
According to KOMO, 91 percent of SEA members voted to authorize a strike if the district does not deliver a contract with higher pay and benefits. The union’s primary demands focus on special‑education support, salary increases, and reduced workload pressures.
Shuldiner responded, “We are good‑faith bargainers who are trying desperately to negotiate a contract that is good for staff and students.” He warned that the union’s push for a strike appears to be a power move rather than a necessity, noting that the district remains willing to negotiate and that a special‑education agreement will only be enacted if the union votes for it.
Proposed pay raise and cost‑saving measures
The superintendent has pledged a 9 percent salary increase for educators over the next three years, but stressed that the district must monitor spending closely. Operational savings are being pursued while the district seeks additional funding from state lawmakers and local levy revenue.
Jason Rantz, host of “The Jason Rantz Show,” praised Shuldiner’s approach, saying the superintendent provided “receipts” showing the union’s delayed bargaining and minimal proposals on special‑education reforms.
Community impact
The budget crisis and potential strike have raised concerns among parents and community members who worry about disruptions to classroom instruction and the quality of education for Seattle’s children. The district’s decision to abandon school closures reflects a desire to maintain neighborhood schools while still addressing the fiscal emergency.
Fox News Digital reached out to both Shuldiner and the Seattle Education Association for comment; responses were not immediately available.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
