St. Paul Federation of Educators

“It is going to take all of us creatively working together to achieve the promise of public education. Educators must stand with parents, students, community allies, and our labor partners to fight for fully funded, racially equitable public education. We believe public schools are where we shape our future.” -SPFE

The St. Paul Federation of Educators is a grassroots organization located in St. Paul Minnesota that focuses on fighting for a quality education and equitable resources for all students. Founded in 1918 the SPFE has a long history of organizing and investing in their students. Currently the organization contains more than 3,500 teachers, parents, staff and community members.  The SPFE participates in bargaining, a strategy that allows several members of the organization to negotiate proposals, contracts and other documents with the superintendent, school board and district. The bargaining strategy has allowed the SPFE greater communication with local and state governance and a greater voice for the needs of their students and community.  In 2013, The St. Paul Federation of Educators along with the commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education, Mary Catheryn D. Rickert developed The Schools St. Paul’s Children Deserve a proposal outlining programming and initiatives to create a more inclusive and supportive space for children to learn. Their proposal was a part of their 2013-2015 contract negotiations but continues to be fought for by teachers and the community. The SPFE’s most recent work focused on directing funds towards hiring more counselors and greater support for their students. After 284 days since the bargaining process began to direct 3.4% of the district’s budget towards supporting students, the SPFE went on strike March 10, 2020. Their diligence and persistence allowed for some additional funds and resources. Today, the group works to fight for restorative justice, family practices, and supporting their teachers through professional development and a supportive salary.