Frequently Asked Questions About UESF Negotiations

Updates:

Artificial intelligence: We reached an agreement on regulations for use of artificial intelligence, which will now set the standard for the state.

Housing: We will continue to support SFUSD students and families experiencing housing instability because that’s the right thing to do. With the support of the city, we will continue to host our stayover program. We are also committed to working with our educators to evaluate the use of our facilities.

Special Education contracting: We reinforced parameters to reduce our reliance on contractors and bolster the long-term stability of our Special Education workforce. 

Last updated Feb. 10

SFUSD has made significant progress in addressing risk factors that prevent the district from achieving fiscal solvency. Using limited, one-time funding to fund ongoing expenses like pay increases with no plan to fund them in the future will create a financial cliff, forcing greater future layoffs and worsening outcomes while extending fiscal distress and the time the district remains in state oversight. It also exposes the district to further cuts if no reserves are available to guard against unforeseen circumstances. The Board of Education established a reserve fund of 8% or $111 million to guard against unforeseen events and to prevent cuts to the classroom in the case of an emergency. The reserve is a set amount of funding with specific prescribed uses that have been adopted by the Board of Education. 

Last updated Feb. 7

Any actions that impact the district’s finances, including pay raises, must be approved by the state’s fiscal oversight advisors.  They have the authority to reject any expenditures that they believe threaten the long-term financial stability of the district.

Last updated Feb. 7

Only the superintendent, with authorization from the Board of Education, can close schools. Closing schools is a last resort but may be necessary if the district cannot safely operate schools during a strike. If UESF chooses to proceed with a strike on Monday, Feb. 9, families and the community should prepare for schools to be closed on Monday.

Last updated Feb. 7

We recognize how disruptive school closures are, and has a significant impact on students and daily routines. We are working closely with our city- and community-based partners to provide options for students, with special attention to students with the greatest needs and those most underserved.

Families, get resources on independent study in the event of school closures or read FAQs about independent study.

Last updated Feb. 7

SFUSD’s goal is to meet its obligation to provide 180 days of annual instruction to students. We are exploring options to make up for any lost school days.  

Last updated Feb. 7