Seattle Teachers Union Authorizes Strike as School Year Nears, Federal Mediator Called In

The Seattle Education Association (SEA), representing approximately 6,000 teachers and school staff, has authorized a strike as contract negotiations with Seattle Public Schools (SPS) remain unresolved. The union's current contract expired on August 31, 2026, with salaries, special education support, and smaller class sizes being key points of contention. Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Ben Shuldiner announced that a federal mediator has been called in at the district's request after talks broke down. A potential walkout could begin on September 2, the scheduled first day of school.