Philadelphia School District’s plans for a possible SEPTA strike may include some virtual classes
The district said a potential strike would affect some 51,000 students
The School District of Philadelphia is preparing for a possible strike by SEPTA workers — described Friday by union leaders as “imminent” — that would affect nearly 51,000 students who ride buses and subways to school.
“I do hope that this strike can be avoided so that we can continue to operate normally and support the social, emotional and academic needs of our students without disruption,” Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. said in a statement Sunday.
Should a pivot to remote classes happen, officials will “ensure that all students, including and especially those with special needs, are equipped with the digital and physical materials they need to participate in virtual learning,” Watlington said.
SEPTA said Sunday evening that negotiations would resume in the morning.
In case no deal is reached with Transport Workers Union Local 234, the school district said it was preparing to support students and families.
Students who are late to school or absent because of a strike will be excused if they get a note from a parent or guardian. Staff who miss work or arrive late because of travel challenges will also be excused, the district said.
If a school experiences significant disruption in student or staff attendance, the district might recommend a shift to virtual instruction for certain schools, the district said.
Teachers will not deliver in-person instruction for some students and virtual instruction for others, officials said.
Watlington said the district will also keep a close eye on staff attendance and, if necessary, move certified central office staff into schools to cover gaps.
Student latenesses due to SEPTA challenges will not count, and absences will be excused if parents provide notes.
The union’s latest contract expired Nov. 7, and the 5,000-member local voted unanimously on Nov. 16 to authorize leaders to call a strike if needed during contract negotiations.
TWU last went on strike in the fall of 2016. High school attendance plummeted to 61% on the first day of the strike, compared with 87% the day before, The Inquirer reported at the time. Attendance rebounded to 71% on the strike’s second day.