San Francisco Schools Face Potential Shutdown as Principals, Custodians Join Teachers' Strike

Administrators and support staff vow to stand in solidarity with educators, leaving schools with no choice but to close.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:19pm by

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San Francisco's education system is facing a potential shutdown as principals, administrators, and even custodians have voted to join the teachers' strike scheduled for Monday. This united front sends a powerful message, but it also raises concerns for families who rely on schools for meals and childcare. The district and teachers' union are set to meet on Saturday, but the union has been firm in its stance, refusing to engage until a more substantial offer is presented.

Why it matters

This tense situation has the city on edge, with parents, students, and educators alike awaiting the outcome. The strike could set a precedent for labor relations in San Francisco's education sector, potentially shaping the landscape of education in the city for years to come.

The details

If the teachers walk out, the schools will grind to a halt as principals, assistant principals, and various administrators have voted to stand with them. This sympathy strike extends beyond administrators, with custodians and clerks, represented by the SEIU 1021 union, also authorizing their participation. Superintendent Maria Su confirmed that all school sites will close on Monday if the strike proceeds.

  • The teachers' strike is scheduled for Monday.
  • The district and teachers' union are set to meet on Saturday.

The players

Anna Klafter

President of the United Administrators of San Francisco.

Maria Su

Superintendent of San Francisco Unified School District.

SEIU 1021

The union representing custodians and clerks in San Francisco schools.

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What they’re saying

“Temporarily closing schools and providing childcare through city partnerships is the most responsible option.”

— Anna Klafter, President of the United Administrators of San Francisco

“A single administrator in an empty school does not make for a safe learning environment, and keeping schools open under such circumstances would be a risk to students.”

— Anna Klafter, President of the United Administrators of San Francisco

What’s next

The district and the teachers' union are set to meet on Saturday, although the union has been firm in its stance, refusing to engage until a more substantial offer is presented.

The takeaway

This strike highlights the complex dynamics of labor relations in San Francisco's education system, with educators prioritizing their demands for better pay and working conditions over the immediate needs of students and families. The outcome of this dispute could set a precedent for future negotiations and the balance of power between the district, unions, and the community.