The Brief
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This week, Su faced criticism from SFUSD educators on social media and on the picket line.
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Su’s salary is $385,000 a year as SFUSD superintendent, more than five times that of a 10-year veteran teacher, according to her Board of Education contract.
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“I am a mother, I have children, I know the importance of education,” said Su.
SAN FRANCISCO – As the San Francisco Unified School District educators’ strike moves into its fourth day, teachers are asking questions about the pay gap between their salaries and that of Superintendent Maria Su.
This week, Su faced criticism from SFUSD educators on social media and on the picket line—with some ire directed at the price of her shoes. When a reporter asked Su what she would say to educators who earn much less than her, when she looks as if she is wearing designer pumps. Su didn’t have a direct answer.
Disparities in superintendent and teacher wages
What they are saying
“I am a mother, I have children, I know the importance of education,” said Su, without answering the question.
Su mentioned her public school education as well as her mother’s position as a public teacher.
“I know the importance of our teachers having fair, competitive and living wages,” she said. “It’s expensive to be here in the city.”
Su spoke about raising her own children in the city, acknowledging that she faces high prices just like everyone else. She brushed aside the reporter’s question about her children attending private school.
Su’s salary is $385,000 a year as SFUSD superintendent, more than five times that of a 10-year veteran teacher, according to her Board of Education contract. In June, Su could also receive a 2% raise to bring her salary up to $392,700, if she meets certain goals and the board approves it.
Meanwhile, a certified, first-year teacher in the district starts at $73,689, and the current contract offers a 2% raise each year, according to the district’s pay rate chart. A certified teacher with 10 years of experience earns $81,297.
Why are San Francisco teachers on strike?
The back story
The San Francisco teachers’ strike began on Monday, and continued into its fourth day on Thursday.
District representatives and teachers had, as of Wednesday morning, reached agreements on three issues: the use of artificial intelligence, services for families experiencing homelessness and steps toward putting in place long-term special education teachers.
The teachers are demanding a 9% raise and fully covered family health care.
The district had previously offered teachers a 6% raise and a $24,000 benefit allowance to help cover health care costs, but at the cost of teachers sacrificing their retirement options.
The district said it is facing a looming $100 million budget shortfall and a structural deficit problem and must make sound financial decisions.
“Under my leadership, SFUSD is on the road to fiscal recovery. We don’t want to diminish the really hard work we’ve done as a community,” Su said Wednesday.
Teachers said there is money to be found and that the district is saving money for a rainy day fund — a day they say is coming.
District representatives said they are ready to continue negotiations until an agreement is reached for teachers and students to return to class.
“We will continue to work around the clock to reach an agreement that honors our educators and is also fiscally responsible,” said Su.