Philadelphia Federation of Teachers

PFT President Jerry Jordan Tells Membership to Work Remotely on Monday

February 5, 2021

"Other than sheer cruelty and a callous disregard for the lives of educators and school staff, I can't think of another reason to push forward with a reckless plan to reopen unsafe buildings for thousands of staff on Monday.

"As we await further information from the neutral third party, I have advised my membership that they should continue to work remotely on Monday. In fact, they will be able to provide more time in front of students by doing this. Further, it is important to remember that this half baked reopening plan means that fewer than 1/3 of eligible students have even chosen the hybrid option.

PFT President Jerry Jordan Calls for Intervention in Reopening School Buildings

February 4, 2021

School buildings are scheduled to reopen on Monday, and I am unable to assure their safety for reoccupancy. It's that simple. Health and safety of the educators and students of Philadelphia is paramount. Despite ongoing discussions with the School District, we do not believe safety conditions outlined by the MOA have been met. As such, I have called for the intervention of the neutral third party, as indicated by our negotiated agreement.

AFTPA, PFT Leaders Call for Elected Officials to Return Yass Donations

January 15, 2021

In response to new reporting showing that Jeffrey Yass funded efforts to overturn the 2020 election, AFT Pennsylvania President Arthur Steinberg, Philadelphia Federation of Teachers President Jerry Jordan, and Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers President Nina Esposito-Visgitis issued the following statement...

Fund Our Facilities Coalition Announces $200M Demand, Coalition Expansion

January 14, 2021

PHILADELPHIA— The Fund Our Facilities Coalition (FOF), established in early 2019 in response to the ongoing facilities crisis in Philadelphia’s public schools, continues to grow and further our demands for safe and healthy schools. Today, the Coalition released an updated demand and member list. Newly elected officials outlined their commitment to the Coalition and their decision to immediately join as partners.

PFT President Jerry Jordan Testimony in Opposition to Delaying Changes to the Tax Abatement

December 1, 2020

This afternoon, PFT President Jerry Jordan delivered testimony before City Council in opposition to Bill 200366, which would delay changes to the 10-year tax abatement.

A Message from Jerry Jordan

December 23, 2020

Dear Members,

It has certainly been an historic year, and one wrought with profound loss and sadness. And as you embark upon a well-deserved respite, I hope you will take time to pause and reflect on how much you have accomplished amidst such trying times. You have done so much for our schoolchildren, your families, and your communities. I hope that you have a peaceful holiday break, and that however you celebrate, you will do so in a way that keeps you and yours safe.

The year was so profound, that I wanted to take a look back at just some of what has unfolded, and our union’s role in all of it. So, bear with me-- this is a long one, but I believe it’s important to reflect on one of the most significant years in recent history.