SFUSD workers demand urgent action on payroll issues and support for educators

In a charged atmosphere at San Francisco City Hall, educators, custodians, and union representatives gathered to voice their frustrations over ongoing issues with the Empower payroll system and the broader challenges facing the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD). The meeting, held on July 4, 2025, highlighted the struggles of essential workers who feel undervalued and underpaid, as they prepare for the upcoming school year.

The session began with a passionate plea from a secretary at Alamo Elementary School, who described the overwhelming number of inquiries from custodians and nutrition workers regarding the malfunctioning Empower system. "I am inundated day and night with phone calls, emails, and texts about all the things that are not going well within Empower," she stated, emphasizing the inadequacy of the system that was supposed to streamline operations.

Christian, a custodial supervisor and chief shop steward for SEIU 1021, shared his personal ordeal with the system, recounting how it failed to process his catastrophic leave correctly, resulting in canceled insurance during a critical time. "I haven't been made whole, not just myself, but a lot of my other colleagues as well," he lamented, echoing a sentiment felt by many in attendance.

As speakers continued, the chorus of discontent grew louder. Lorraine Bowser, a veteran of the Student Nutrition Department, expressed her disbelief at the district's failure to manage employee benefits, stating, "This empowered thing was just a big joke." Many echoed her concerns, revealing that they had not received their full paychecks or health benefits, leaving them struggling to make ends meet in one of the most expensive cities in the country.

The call for a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) was a recurring theme, with educators like Carolyn Karlovic highlighting the unsustainable living conditions for teachers. "How and why would I want to continue teaching when I can't qualify to rent an apartment by myself in the city that I serve?" she asked, a question that resonated deeply with her colleagues.

The meeting also took a serious turn as Reverend Arnold Townsend, vice president of the NAACP, called for the resignation of Commissioner Sue, citing a lack of accountability in addressing the needs of Black and Brown students. His remarks underscored a broader concern about equity within the district, as many speakers pointed out systemic issues that have persisted for years.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the frustrations were not just about payroll; they were about respect, recognition, and the urgent need for systemic change within SFUSD. "We need to show that we care about the working-class population that works for the district," urged Suzanne Tavianski, a health worker, emphasizing the disconnect between the district's leadership and its employees.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a stark reminder of the challenges facing SFUSD as it prepares for a new school year. With educators and support staff united in their demands for fair treatment and adequate compensation, the pressure is mounting on district leaders to address these critical issues. As the community awaits action, the voices of those who serve the students of San Francisco remain resolute: they deserve better.