San Diego, February 3, 2026
Educators in the San Diego Unified School District are planning their first strike in 30 years on February 26, 2026, to address ongoing disputes regarding special education staffing and services. The strike will affect all 172 campuses, with approximately 95,000 students impacted. The San Diego Education Association is demanding increased staffing and support for students with disabilities. Despite the district’s efforts to address these concerns, no agreement had been reached as of early February 2026.
San Diego Teachers Plan First Strike in 30 Years Over Special Education Staffing
San Diego, CA – Educators in the San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) are preparing for their first strike in three decades, scheduled for February 26, 2026. The San Diego Education Association (SDEA) has announced this one-day strike in response to ongoing disputes over special education staffing and services.
Strike Details
The strike is set to affect all 172 SDUSD campuses, leading to the closure of schools on that day. District officials have advised parents to make alternative arrangements for their children. To compensate for the lost instructional time, the district has scheduled makeup classes on March 9, 2026.
Union’s Demands
The SDEA is demanding increased special education staffing, improved student support, and teacher stipends. Union leaders have expressed concerns that current staffing levels are insufficient to meet the needs of students with disabilities, leading to educational shortfalls for these vulnerable students.
District’s Response
SDUSD Superintendent Fabiola Bagula stated that the district has made efforts to address the union’s concerns, including offering a 3-year “stability package” that encompasses fully paid family health benefits, salary increases, and a pilot program to address special education workload. However, as of February 2, 2026, no agreement has been reached.
Background
This impending strike follows a series of similar actions across California. In December 2025, teachers in West Contra Costa Unified School District initiated a strike over similar issues. Additionally, in January 2026, educators in San Francisco voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, citing concerns over pay and special education staffing.
The last teacher strike in San Diego occurred in 1996, when educators walked out for a week over pay and school decision-making.
Impact on the Community
The planned strike is expected to disrupt educational activities across the district, affecting approximately 95,000 students. Parents and guardians are encouraged to seek alternative childcare and educational arrangements for February 26.
Looking Ahead
Both the SDEA and SDUSD have expressed a commitment to continuing negotiations in hopes of reaching a resolution before the scheduled strike date. The community remains hopeful for a swift and amicable agreement that prioritizes the needs of students, particularly those requiring special education services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the reason for the planned strike?
The San Diego Education Association (SDEA) is planning a one-day strike on February 26, 2026, due to disputes over special education staffing and services within the San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD).
When is the strike scheduled to occur?
The strike is scheduled for February 26, 2026. On that day, all 172 SDUSD campuses will be closed.
What are the main demands of the SDEA?
The SDEA is demanding increased special education staffing, improved student support, and teacher stipends. Union leaders have expressed concerns that current staffing levels are insufficient to meet the needs of students with disabilities, leading to educational shortfalls for these vulnerable students.
How is the district responding to the strike?
SDUSD Superintendent Fabiola Bagula stated that the district has made efforts to address the union’s concerns, including offering a 3-year “stability package” that encompasses fully paid family health benefits, salary increases, and a pilot program to address special education workload. However, as of February 2, 2026, no agreement has been reached.
What is the history of teacher strikes in San Diego?
The last teacher strike in San Diego occurred in 1996, when educators walked out for a week over pay and school decision-making.
How will the strike affect students and parents?
The planned strike is expected to disrupt educational activities across the district, affecting approximately 95,000 students. Parents and guardians are encouraged to seek alternative childcare and educational arrangements for February 26.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Strike Date | February 26, 2026 |
| Duration | One day |
| Number of Affected Schools | 172 SDUSD campuses |
| Number of Students Affected | Approximately 95,000 |
| Union’s Main Demands | Increased special education staffing, improved student support, teacher stipends |
| District’s Response | Offered a 3-year “stability package” including fully paid family health benefits, salary increases, and a pilot program to address special education workload |
| Last Teacher Strike in San Diego | 1996 |
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