Sheridan School District teachers vote to authorize strike

Teachers, staff vote overwhelmingly to approve strike amid contract negotiations with district

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Teachers and staff in Colorado's Sheridan School District 2 have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, citing failed contract negotiations with the district. The Sheridan Educators Association (SEA) said 98% of its membership, which includes teachers, mental health providers, bus drivers, and other school workers, voted to approve striking, though no strike date has been set yet.

Why it matters

The vote highlights ongoing tensions between teachers unions and school districts over issues like pay, benefits, and working conditions. Teacher strikes can significantly disrupt student learning and put pressure on districts to meet educator demands, though districts also have a responsibility to maintain continuity of education for students.

The details

The SEA said the vote came after months of failed attempts to negotiate a new contract with the district, accusing the district of "a stunning pattern of bad faith actions and retaliation against educators." The district said it has made multiple attempts to engage with the SEA in "constructive dialogue" and remains available to continue discussions, though it is also preparing for potential disruptions.

  • The vote to authorize a strike took place on March 5, 2026.

The players

Sheridan Educators Association (SEA)

The labor union representing teachers, mental health providers, bus drivers, and other staff in Colorado's Sheridan School District 2.

Sheridan School District 2

The public school district serving the city of Sheridan, Colorado.

Kate Biester

A teacher at Sheridan High School and the president of the SEA.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights ongoing tensions between teachers unions and school districts over issues like pay, benefits, and working conditions. While both sides say they want to reach an agreement, the vote to authorize a strike shows the depth of the disagreement and the potential for significant disruption to student learning if a resolution is not found.