Detroit Federation of Teachers

Democrat Jocelyn Benson and Republican John James will face off in the Nov. 3 general election for Michigan governor, with education as a key issue. Benson emphasizes equitable school funding and higher teacher salaries, while James supports expanding school choice and federal tax credit scholarships. Both candidates won their primary elections against opponents Chris Swanson and Perry Johnson.

The Detroit school board approved a two-year teacher contract with 3% annual pay raises, retention bonuses, and a new AI policy. The agreement, covering 2026-2028, includes increased salaries for teachers with master’s degrees and stipends for classrooms with students requiring special support.

The Detroit Public Schools Community District released its 2026-27 school calendar, starting Aug. 24 with 175 student days and 5 staff professional development days. The calendar excludes Eid al-Fitr on March 10, despite past community requests, and includes key breaks and count days for state funding.

The Detroit teachers' union approved a tentative 2-year contract with the school district, including higher wages for all members and performance bonuses for attendance agents, career and technical education teachers, and staff certified to teach English language learners. The contract, covering the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years, received over 80% approval from voting members and requires school board finalization.

Detroit school teachers are voting on a tentative agreement with the Detroit Public Schools Community District that includes increased pay, improved schedules, and language addressing artificial intelligence. The contract, if approved, would last two years and also covers negotiations for para-professionals. Lakia Wilson of the Detroit Federation of Teachers emphasized the focus on improving working conditions, not just financial compensation.