Teachers have a long history of striking, and their activism has grown over the last decade. They are often the first to raise issues that affect students and the larger community, and their strikes have been the catalyst for national debates on education reform and how we treat educators.
A teacher strike is a complex, high-stakes event. It requires a high level of commitment from both sides and the support of their colleagues. It also demands that the administration and school board treat them with respect. Hundreds of small disrespectful decisions can add up to a systemic climate of disrespect, making teachers more likely to strike.
Across the country, teachers are negotiating for pay increases, improved working conditions, and increased resources for their schools. Research suggests that 89 percent of strikes focus on these issues, and many teachers are willing to take the risk of walking off the job to achieve them. However, teachers must be convinced that their objectives are important and worthy; that they cannot be achieved through other means; that the public supports their cause; and that they can maintain solidarity throughout the process.
Ultimately, the outcome of a teacher strike depends on the political environment and local context. In some states, strikes result in a rethinking of educational policies and increased funding; in others, they have little impact. But regardless of how many days are canceled, these events have significant effects on the lives of students and their families, as well as the people who serve them.