Teacher union strike megaphone

Teacher union strikes are an abuse of power and hurt students. That’s why most states outlaw strikes by public school teachers.  

Typically, laws require schools to provide 180 days of school instruction. Yet, big union bosses have called for strikes at an increasing rate–closing schools and holding students and families hostage across the country until their demands are met. 

To make matters worse, the unions negotiate with the very people they helped elect to office, which means no one is at the negotiating table representing students and their interests. This must stop.

To provide a clearer understanding of this abuse of power, DFI developed a strike tracker to map strikes conducted nationwide by the largest teacher unions, the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), from 2010 to the present.

If you know about strike actions not included in the map, please alert us at union.strikes@dfipolicy.org

Explore our interactive map below to learn more about teacher union strikes in the United States since 2010.

Since 2010…

626 days

of lost instruction

128 strikes

in 30 states and the District of Columbia

846,295

employees on strike

DFI will update the map to reflect future strikes and additional past strikes as more data becomes available.
Select a pin on the map below to see more.
  • All
  • NEA Strikes (73)
  • NEA and AFT Strikes (5)
  • AFT Strikes (20)
Select a pin to view details

Alabama


Since 2010, Alabama has experienced 1 strike day (this was an instructional day), the student-teacher ratio rose by 1.26, and state expenditure per student rose by $708. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $60,441.

Striking is prohibited in Alabama. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Birmingham Federation of Teachers (AFT)Birmingham City Schools1/26/20221/26/20221130

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201046,798741,04315.83
202242,647727,68517.06

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$11,828$12,536+$708

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Arizona


Since 2010, Arizona has experienced 8 strike days (6 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio rose by 4.82, and state expenditure per student rose by $773. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $60,275.

Striking is prohibited in Arizona. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Arizona Education Association (NEA)Statewide4/26/20185/3/20188*81,000

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201058,3051,071,48418.38
202248,8201,132,36123.19

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$10,548$11,321+$773

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Arkansas


Since 2010, Arkansas has experienced 1 strike day (this was an instructional day), the student-teacher ratio rose by 0.23, and state expenditure per student fell by $390. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $54,309.

Striking is prohibited in Arkansas. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Little Rock Education Association (NEA)Little Rock School District11/14/201911/14/20191725

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201030,700459,41914.96
202231,354476,31815.19

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$12,872$12,482-$390

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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California


Since 2010, California has experienced 84.5 strike days (68 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 1.99, and state expenditure per student rose by $5,471. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $95,160.

Striking is legal in California. The state has experienced 29 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Capistrano Unified Educators Association (NEA)Capistrano Unified School District4/22/20104/26/20105*1,800
Oakland Education Association (NEA)Oakland Unified School District4/29/20104/29/20101*2,500
United Teachers Los Angeles – NEA and AFTLos Angeles Unified School District1/14/20191/22/20199*33,000
Oakland Education Association (NEA)Oakland Unified School District2/21/20193/1/20199*2,300
Sacramento City Teachers Association – NEASacramento City Unified School District4/11/20194/11/20191*1,900
California Federation of Teachers (AFT); California Teachers Association (NEA)San Francisco Unified School District1/6/20221/6/20221250
California Teachers Association (NEA)Oakland Unified School District1/7/20221/7/20221250
California Teachers Association (NEA)West Contra Costa Unified School District1/11/20221/13/2022316
California Teachers Association (NEA)Frick United Academy of Language – Oakland Unified School District1/12/20221/13/2022225
California Teachers Association (NEA)Oakland Unified School District1/13/20221/13/20221Not listed
California Teachers Association (NEA)Oakland Unified School District1/18/20221/18/2022155
California Teachers Association (NEA)Richmond High School – West Contra Costa Unified School District1/19/20221/19/2022130
Rocklin Teachers Professional Association (NEA)Rocklin Unified School District2/28/20222/28/20221200
National Education Association (NEA); Service Employees International Union (SEIU)Sacramento City Unified School District3/23/20224/3/2022124,600
California Teachers Association (NEA)Oakland Unified School District2/1/20222/1/20220.5Not listed
Nevada Joint Union High School Teachers Association (NEA)Nevada Union High School2/23/20222/25/2022340
California Teachers Association (NEA)Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District3/10/20223/17/20228320
Sausalito District Teachers Association (NEA)Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy – Sausalito Marin City School District3/24/20223/24/202217
California Teachers Association (NEA)Calexico Unified School District3/30/20223/30/2022180
United Teachers Los Angeles – AFT; NEAAlliance College Ready Charter Schools4/28/20224/28/20221120
California Teachers Association (NEA)Oakland Unified School District4/29/20224/29/202212,000
United Educators of San Francisco – AFT, NEASan Francisco Unified School District11/2/202211/2/2022160
United Educators of San Francisco – AFT, NEALowell High School – San Francisco Unified School District12/7/202212/7/20221100
Service Employees International Union (SEIU); United Teachers of Los Angeles – AFT, NEALos Angeles Unified School District3/21/20233/23/2023365,000
Oakland Education Association (NEA)Oakland Unified School District3/24/20233/24/20231200
Oakland Education Association (NEA)Oakland Unified School District5/4/20235/4/2023123,000
Compton Education Association (NEA)Emerson Elementary School – Compton Unified School District11/28/202311/28/2023125
Santa Rosa Teachers Association (NEA)Herbert Slater Middle School – Santa Rosa City Schools12/8/202312/8/2023131
Santa Rosa Teachers Association (NEA)Montgomery High School – Santa Rosa City Schools12/11/202312/11/2023133

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
2010263,6306,219,64923.59
2022270,8675,852,54421.61

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$12,398$17,869+$5,471

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Colorado


Since 2010, Colorado has experienced 10 strike days (10 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 2.01 and state expenditure per student rose by $3,841. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $60,775.

Striking is prohibited in Colorado. The state has experienced 6 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Colorado Education Association (NEA)Statewide strike4/26/20184/27/20182*63,000
Denver Classroom Teachers Association (NEA)Denver Public Schools2/11/20192/14/20194*3,900
Douglas County Federation (AFT)Douglas County School District2/3/20222/3/202211,500
Pikes Peak Education Association (NEA)Academy District 202/18/20222/18/20221180
Woodland Park Education Association (NEA)Woodland Park School District3/1/20233/1/2023115
School District 14 Classroom Teachers Association (NEA)Adams City High School – Adams County School District 142/14/20242/14/20241Not listed

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201048,478843,31517.40
202257,400883,26415.39

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$11,910$15,751+$3,841

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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District of Columbia


Since 2010, the District of Columbia has experienced 1 strike day (this was an instructional day), the student-teacher ratio fell by 1.44, and state expenditure per student fell by $1,419. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $84,882.

Striking is prohibited in the District of Columbia. The District has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Washington Teachers’ Union (AFT)Anacostia High School – District of Columbia Public Schools1/21/20221/21/2022135

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
20105,83576,21013.06
20227,82991,00111.62

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$28,185$26,766-$1,419

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Florida


Since 2010, Florida has experienced 1 strike day (this was an instructional day), the student-teacher ratio rose by 4.59, and state expenditure per student rose by $247. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $53,098.

Striking is prohibited in Florida. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Florida Education Association – NEA, AFTLee County School District10/25/202110/25/2021183

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
2010169,7192,637,22415.54
2022142,6342,870,50720.12

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$12,241$12,488+$247

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Idaho


Since 2010, Idaho has experienced 2 strike days (2 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.3, and state expenditure per student rose by $353. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $56,365.

Striking is prohibited in Idaho. The state has experienced 2 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
West Ada Education Association (NEA)West Ada School District10/19/202010/19/20201700
West Ada Education Association (NEA)West Ada School District10/20/202010/20/20201500

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201015,669285,23618.20
202217,814318,97917.91

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$9,246$9,599+$353

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Illinois


Since 2010, Illinois has experienced 101 strike days (75 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 2.44 and state expenditure per student rose by $4,944. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $73,916.

Striking is legal in Illinois. The state has experienced 10 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Chicago Teachers Union (AFT)City of Chicago Public School District 2999/10/20129/18/20129*26,500
Lake County Federation of Teachers (AFT)Waukegan School District 6010/2/201410/30/201429*1,200
Chicago Teachers Union (AFT)City of Chicago Public School District4/1/20164/1/20161*27,000
Chicago Teachers Union (AFT)Chicago Public Schools10/17/201910/31/201915*32,000
Illinois Education Association (NEA)Bourbonnais Elementary School District 533/4/20213/11/20218167
American Federation of Teachers (AFT)Urban Prep Academies6/7/20216/9/2021334
Patton Federation of Teachers Council (AFT)Gen. George Patton School District 1333/8/20223/14/2022719
West Suburban Teachers Union (AFT)Proviso High School District 2093/4/20223/25/202222280
Chicago Teachers Union (AFT)Instituto del Progreso Latino2/6/20242/11/2024648
Urbana Education Association (NEA)Urbana Middle School – Urbana School District #1164/1/20244/1/2024150

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
2010129,2892,098,14516.23
2022134,8881,859,66313.79

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$15,917$20,861$4,944

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Indiana


Since 2010, Indiana has experienced 4 strike days (4 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.43, and state expenditure per student rose by $192. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $57,015.

Striking is prohibited in Indiana. The state has experienced 2 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Anderson Federation of Teachers (AFT)Anderson Community Schools11/1/202111/3/20213100
Indiana State Teachers Association (NEA)Metropolitan School District of Pike Township11/10/202111/10/2021191

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201063,2661,047,08416.55
202264,1621,034,15116.12

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$12,540$12,732+$192

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Kentucky


Since 2010, Kentucky has experienced 20 strike days (16 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio rose by 0.32 and state expenditure per student rose by $1,091. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $56,296.

Striking is prohibited in Kentucky. The state has experienced 2 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Kentucky Education Association (NEA)Statewide strike4/2/20184/13/201812*26,000
Kentucky Education Association (NEA)Statewide strike2/28/20193/7/20198*22,900

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201041,331658,32815.93
202240,610660,02916.25

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$12,508$13,599+$1,091

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Louisiana


Since 2010, Louisiana has experienced 9 strike days (7 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.22, and state expenditure per student rose by $1,659. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $54,248.

Striking is legal in Louisiana. The state has experienced 6 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Louisiana Association of Educators (NEA)East Baton Rouge Parish Public Schools4/12/20214/12/20211600
Louisiana Association of Educators (NEA)East Baton Rouge Parish Public Schools1/12/20221/12/20221760
St. Tammany Federation of Teachers and School Employees (AFT)St. Tammany Parish School District2/11/20222/11/2022160
Livingston Federation of Teachers and School Employees (AFT)Livingston Parish Public Schools03/30/202303/30/20231100
St. Helena Association of Educators (NEA)St. Helena Parish School District5/8/20235/8/2023170
Louisiana School Bus Operators Association – East Baton Rouge; NEAEast Baton Rouge Parish Public Schools8/18/20238/21/20234195

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201048,894696,55814.25
202248,887685,60614.02

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$14,638$16,297+$1,659

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Massachusetts


Since 2010, Massachusetts has experienced 36 strike days (26 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 1.65 and state expenditure per student rose by $4,135. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $92,307.

Striking is prohibited in Massachusetts. The state has experienced 6 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Brookline Educators Union (NEA)The Public Schools of Brookline5/16/20225/17/202221,000
Malden Education Association (NEA)Malden Public Schools10/17/202210/17/20221475
Haverhill Education Association (NEA)Haverhill Public Schools10/17/202210/20/20224515
Woburn Teachers’ Association (NEA)Woburn Public Schools1/30/20232/5/20237500
Andover Education Association (NEA)Andover Public Schools11/10/202311/14/20235800
Newton Teachers Association (NEA)Newton Public Schools1/19/20242/4/2024171,900

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201070,217954,68713.60
202276,329912,11711.95

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$19,806$23,941+$4,135

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Michigan


Since 2010, Michigan has experienced 5 strike days (5 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.55, and state expenditure per student fell by $48. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $67,011.

Striking is prohibited in Michigan. The state has experienced 4 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Detroit Federation of Teachers (AFT)Detroit Public Schools5/2/20165/3/20162*1,500
Michigan Education Association (NEA)Grosse Pointe Public School System4/28/20214/28/20211116
Michigan Education Association (NEA)Flint Community Schools6/7/20216/7/20211Not listed
United Teachers of Flint (NEA)Flint Community Schools3/13/20243/13/20241119

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201096,6631,662,06717.19
202283,1681,383,88916.64

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$14,337$14,289-$48

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Minnesota


Since 2010, Minnesota has experienced 21 strike days (15 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.10, and state expenditure per student rose by $1,992. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $70,005.

Striking is legal in Minnesota. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Minneapolis Federation of Teachers and Educational Support Professionals (AFT)Minneapolis Public Schools3/8/20223/28/2022214,500

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201052,524810,12315.42
202256,757870,01915.33

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$14,468$16,460+$1,992

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Missouri


Since 2010, Missouri has experienced 2 strike days (2 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 1.94, and state expenditure per student rose by $590. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $53,999.

Striking is prohibited in Missouri. The state has experienced 2 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
American Federation of Teachers (AFT)KIPP St. Louis High School4/19/20244/19/20241Not listed
American Federation of Teachers (AFT)KIPP St. Louis High School4/29/20244/29/2024136

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201067,385903,88713.41
202275,109861,53511.47

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$12,824$13,414+$590

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Nevada


Since 2010, Nevada has experienced 1 strike day (this was an instructional day), the student-teacher ratio rose by 4.56, and state expenditure per student rose by $114. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $61,719.

Striking is prohibited in Nevada. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Washoe Education Association (NEA)Dilworth Middle School – Washoe County School District12/16/202212/16/2022127

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201025,049456,84418.24
202221,242484,24022.80

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$11,402$11,516+$114

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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New Jersey


Since 2010, New Jersey has experienced 2 strike days (2 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.69, and state expenditure per student rose by $1,873. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $81,102.

Striking is prohibited in New Jersey. The state has experienced 2 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Jersey City Education Association (NEA)Jersey City School District3/16/20183/16/20181*3,800
New Jersey Education Association (NEA)Asbury Park School District6/11/20216/11/20211100

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
2010109,9981,366,06712.42
2022116,9801,371,92111.73

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$22,846$24,719+$1,873

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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New Mexico


Since 2010, New Mexico has experienced 1 strike day (this was an instructional day), the student-teacher ratio fell by 1.93, and state expenditure per student rose by $886. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $63,580.

Striking is prohibited in New Mexico. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Las Cruces Transportation Federation (AFT)Student Transportation Services New Mexico – Las Cruces Public Schools10/28/202110/28/2021125

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201021,263334,46515.73
202222,939316,66013.80

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$12,538$13,424+$886

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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New York


Since 2010, New York has experienced 1 strike day (this was an instructional day), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.63, and state expenditure per student rose by $5,306. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $92,696.

Striking is prohibited in New York. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
United Federation of Teachers (AFT)Charles O. Dewey Middle School 136 – NYCDOE1/4/20221/4/2022140
Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
2010223,8622,642,52411.80
2022215,0922,403,93111.18

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$25,561$30,867+$5,306

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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North Carolina


Since 2010, North Carolina has experienced 37 strike days (27 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.22, and state expenditure per student rose by $1,967. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $56,559.

Striking is prohibited in North Carolina. The state has experienced 6 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
North Carolina Association of Educators (NEA)Statewide strike5/16/20185/16/20181*123,000
North Carolina Association of Educators (NEA)Statewide strike5/1/20195/1/20191*92,700
North Carolina Association of Educators (NEA)Wake County Public School System10/29/202111/2/20215150
North Carolina Association of Educators (NEA)Wake County Public School System11/16/202111/17/20212Not listed
Durham Association of Educators (NEA)Durham Public Schools1/17/20242/12/202427Not listed
Durham Association of Educators (NEA)Durham Public Schools5/23/20245/23/2024117

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201094,8791,424,53615.01
202293,2621,379,81114.79

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$11,206$13,173+$1,967

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Ohio


Since 2010, Ohio has experienced 33 strike days (25 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio rose by 0.39, and state expenditure per student fell by $387. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $66,390.

Striking is legal in Ohio. The state has experienced 3 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Ohio Education Association (NEA)Geneva Area City School District11/3/202111/4/20212145
Columbus Education Association (NEA)Columbus City Schools8/22/20228/26/202254,500
Youngstown Education Association (NEA)Youngstown City School District8/23/20239/17/202326400

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
2010108,8881,881,43617.28
202299,4421,756,83017.67

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$15,446$15,059-$387

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Oklahoma


Since 2010, Oklahoma has experienced 11 strike days (9 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio rose by 0.52, and state expenditure per student rose by $745. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $55,505.

Striking is prohibited in Oklahoma. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Oklahoma Education Association (NEA)Statewide strike4/2/20184/12/201811*45,000

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201041,326659,62215.96
202242,551701,25816.48

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$10,344$11,089+$745

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Oregon


Since 2010, Oregon has experienced 27 strike days (19 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 2.85, and state expenditure per student rose by $2,874. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $72,476.

Striking is legal in Oregon. The state has experienced 2 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Oregon Education Association (NEA)Statewide strike5/8/20195/8/20191*20,400
Portland Association of Teachers (NEA)Portland Public Schools11/1/202311/26/2023264,000

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201027,646561,33120.30
202231,650552,38017.45

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$12,899$15,773+$2,874

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Pennsylvania


Since 2010, Pennsylvania has experienced 206 strike days (150 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.08, and state expenditure per student rose by $2,512. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $74,945.

Striking is legal in Pennsylvania. The state has experienced 9 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Allegheny Valley Education Association (NEA)Allegheny Valley School District9/16/201010/14/201029Not listed
Bethel Park Federation of Teachers (AFT)Bethel Park School District10/25/201012/6/201067391
Moon Education Association (NEA)Moon Area School District11/8/201011/29/201022295
Pennsylvania State Education Association (NEA)Keystone Oaks School District2/1/20212/7/20217150
Pennsylvania State Education Association (NEA)Shikellamy School District5/14/20215/28/20211563
Pennsylvania State Education Association (NEA)Redbank Valley School District9/13/202110/19/20213780
Scranton Federation of Teachers (AFT)Scranton School District11/3/202111/19/202117800
AFT PennsylvaniaOlney Charter High School12/20/202112/20/2021140
Pennsylvania State Education Association (NEA)Penns Manor Area School District2/27/20233/9/20231170

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
2010125,9021,763,94614.01
2022121,0961,686,84413.93

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$17,752$20,264+$2,512

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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South Carolina


Since 2010, South Carolina has experienced 1 strike day (this was an instructional day), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.74, and state expenditure per student rose by $1,414. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $57,778.

Striking is prohibited in South Carolina. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
South Carolina Association of Educators (NEA)Statewide strike5/1/20195/1/20191*18,900

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201046,247714,42115.45
202253,668789,23114.71

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$12,074$13,488+$1,414

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Texas


Since 2010, Texas has experienced 2 strike days (2 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio rose by 0.26, and state expenditure per student rose by $61. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $60,716.

Striking is prohibited in Texas. The state has experienced 2 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Houston Education Association (NEA); Houston Federation of Teachers (AFT)Houston Independent School District4/4/20244/4/20241100
Houston Education Association (NEA); Houston Federation of Teachers (AFT)Houston Independent School District5/23/20245/23/20241300

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
2010334,9464,912,38514.67
2022369,7625,518,43214.92

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$11,772$11,833+$61

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Vermont


Since 2010, Vermont has experienced 4 strike days (4 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio rose by 0.59, and state expenditure per student rose by $6,813. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $66,536.

Striking is legal in Vermont. The state has experienced 1 strike.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
South Burlington Educators Association (NEA)South Burlington School District10/14/201410/17/20144200

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
20108,90185,6359.62
20228,19683,65410.21

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$19,936$26,749+$2,130

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Virginia


Since 2010, Virginia has experienced 5 strike days (5 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio rose by 0.55, and state expenditure per student rose by $2,130. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $63,103.

Striking is prohibited in Virginia. The state has experienced 4 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Richmond Education Association (NEA)Richmond Public Schools1/24/20221/24/20221100
Chesterfield Education Association (NEA)Chesterfield County Public Schools01/27/20221/28/2022240
Essex Education Association – Virginia Education Association (NEA)Essex County Public Schools2/4/20222/4/2022152
Virginia Education Association (NEA)Charlottesville High School – Charlottesville City Schools11/17/202311/17/2023127

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
2010105,8301,252,52911.84
2022100,6731,247,12112.39

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$14,047$16,177+$2,130

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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Washington


Since 2010, Washington has experienced 168 strike days (124 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 2.71, and state expenditure per student rose by $6,388. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $86,804.

Striking is prohibited in Washington. The state has experienced 17 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
Tacoma Teachers Association (NEA)City of Tacoma9/13/20119/22/201110*1,900
Washington Education Association (NEA)Statewide strike4/22/20156/3/201543*16,900
Pasco Association of Educators (NEA)Pasco School District9/1/20159/13/201513*1,100
Seattle Education Association (NEA)Seattle School District9/9/20159/15/20157*5,000
Tacoma Education Association (NEA)Tacoma School District9/6/20189/14/20189*2,400
Kennewick Education Association (NEA)Kennewick School District8/27/20198/30/20194*1,800
Washington Education Association (NEA)Bellevue School District1/19/20211/25/20217Not listed
Tacoma Education Association-Washington Education Association (NEA)Tacoma Public Schools2/24/20212/24/2021161
Washington Education Association (NEA)Seattle Public Schools12/16/202112/17/2021295
Washington Education Association (NEA)Chief Sealth International High School – Seattle Public Schools1/14/20221/14/2022160
Kent Education Association (NEA)Kent School District8/25/20229/7/2022141,700
Seattle Education Association (NEA)Seattle School District9/7/20229/13/202276,000
Eatonville Education Association (NEA)Eatonville School District9/7/20229/15/20229110
Ridgefield Education Association (NEA)Ridgefield School District9/9/20229/18/202210200
Camas Education Association (NEA)Camas School District8/28/20239/7/202311460
Evergreen Education Association (NEA)Evergreen Public Schools8/30/20239/11/2023131,500
Port Angeles ParaEducator Association (NEA)Port Angeles School District4/8/20244/14/20247352

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201053,8841,041,24519.32
202264,1241,065,19016.61

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$13,039$19,427+$6,388

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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West Virginia


Since 2010, West Virginia has experienced 21 strike days (15 were instructional days), the student-teacher ratio fell by 0.72, and state expenditure per student fell by $866. The average 2022-23 teacher salary is $52,870.

Striking is prohibited in West Virginia. The state has experienced 2 strikes.

Union on StrikeEmployerStart DateEnd DateDays on StrikeStrike Participation
West Virginia Education Association (NEA)Statewide strike2/16/20183/6/201819*35,000
West Virginia Education Association (NEA)Statewide strike2/19/20192/20/20192*36,400

Dates are ordered by (month/day/year)

*Sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and rounded to the nearest hundred. Strikes recorded by BLS (those from 2010-20) only involve those with 1,000 or more striking workers.

“Strike Participation” refers to the approximate number of workers on strike.

Instructional days lost do not account for potential holidays/special events that may result in school closures.
Public School TeachersFall Student EnrollmentStudent/Teacher Ratio
201019,791282,13014.26
202218,478250,04913.53

2010-112022-23Change
Per Student Expenditure$16,236$15,370-$866

Amounts are in constant 2022-23 dollars
Note: This data reflects the current expenditures per student in fall enrollment in public elementary and secondary schools.

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View sources here


Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations and the University of Illinois’ LER School (2021, May 1). ILR Labor Action Tracker – Cornell University. ILR School. https://striketracker.ilr.cornell.edu/

Major Work Stoppages: Detailed Monthly Listing 1993-Present. (2024). Available at: https://www.bls.gov/web/wkstp/monthly-listing.htm

NEA Research (2011) Ranking & Estimates: Rankings of the States 2011 and Estimates of School Statistics 2012, Education Resources Information Center. Available at: https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED583098.pdf

NEA Research (2023) Rankings of the States 2022 and Estimates of School Statistics 2023, Education Resources Information Center. Available at: https://www.nea.org/sites/default/files/2023-04/2023-rankings-and-estimates-report.pdf

NEA Research (2024) Rankings of the States 2023 and Estimates of School Statistics 2024, Education Resources Information Center. Available at: https://www.nea.org/sites/default/files/2024-04/2024_rankings_and_estimates_report.pdf

U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, Statistics of State School Systems, 1969-70; Revenues and Expenditures for Public Elementary and Secondary Education, 1979-80; and Common Core of Data (CCD), “National Public Education Financial Survey,” 1989-90 through 2020-21. (This table was prepared September 2023.) Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d23/tables/dt23_236.65.asp