What to know if Oakland teachers go on strike

"After more than 10 months of negotiations, a fact-finding phase, and two late-night bargaining sessions, Oakland Unified School District and the Oakland Education Association appear to be moving closer to a deal on a new contract for Oakland teachers. But the district's teachers voted to authorize a strike last Friday, Feb. 20, and if a deal isn't reached, the union could call a strike at any time."

"Teachers' unions generally have to give at least 48 hours notice before walking out. So the school district and families will have at least two days to prepare after the union calls a strike. The strike would last until the two sides can come to an agreement. In 2019 and 2023, OEA's strikes each lasted for seven school days."

"While teachers unions can't discourage families from sending their children to school, part of the power of a strike is its impact on school funding. Lower attendance rates mean less funding. In 2023, OUSD saw a 4% drop in attendance during the strike."

Oakland Unified School District and the Oakland Education Association have been negotiating for over 10 months on a new teacher contract. Teachers voted to authorize a strike on February 20, with the next bargaining session scheduled for Thursday. The school board held an emergency meeting on labor negotiations, and Wednesday's vote will address hundreds of layoffs to manage the district's deficit. Any teacher raises require corresponding budget cuts. If a strike occurs, the union must provide 48 hours notice. Previous OEA strikes in 2019 and 2023 each lasted seven school days. Schools may remain open during a strike but with minimal instruction. Sending children to school during a strike crosses the picket line and reduces attendance-based funding.

Read at The Oaklandside