West Sacramento Teachers Authorize Strike

Union votes overwhelmingly to strike if necessary amid contract negotiations

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The West Sacramento Teachers Association has voted 97% to authorize a strike if necessary, becoming the third local teachers union in the Sacramento area to do so this year. The union is fighting for a contract that meets regional working and learning standards, including competitive salaries and fully-paid family health insurance.

Why it matters

Teacher strikes can significantly disrupt education and impact students, families, and communities. This vote reflects growing labor tensions in California's education system, with several local unions authorizing strikes amid stalled contract negotiations.

The details

The West Sacramento Teachers Association, which represents educators in the Washington Unified School District, announced the strike authorization vote on Wednesday. 96% of union members participated in the vote, which the district says is its first in more than 20 years. The union accused the district of failing to prioritize students and classrooms, and is seeking a contract that meets regional standards for working and learning conditions.

  • On February 19, 2026, the West Sacramento Teachers Association announced the strike authorization vote.
  • The union said negotiations with the district are currently at the fact-finding stage, which means a panel will hear presentations from both sides to determine if a settlement can be reached.

The players

West Sacramento Teachers Association

The labor union representing teachers in the Washington Unified School District in West Sacramento, California.

Douglas Knepp

President of the West Sacramento Teachers Association.

Washington Unified School District

The school district in West Sacramento, California where the teachers union is negotiating a contract.

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What they’re saying

“Our students deserve experienced, dedicated educators who are able to spend their careers in West Sacramento. With our overwhelming vote to authorize a strike if necessary, West Sac educators have spoken. We will not give up until we win that stability for our students.”

— Douglas Knepp, President, West Sacramento Teachers Association (FOX40)

What’s next

The West Sacramento Teachers Association is still working to secure a fact-finder and a hearing date. Under California law, teachers are legally allowed to go on strike 48 hours after a fact-finding report is released.

The takeaway

This vote reflects the growing labor tensions in California's education system, with several local teachers unions in the Sacramento area authorizing strikes amid stalled contract negotiations. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant impacts on students, families, and the broader community.