Milwaukee School Board Backs Phased 2.63% Teacher Raise by 2027

Overview

• The Milwaukee Board of School Directors approved a two-step cost-of-living increase for MTEA-represented staff that reaches 2.63% by January 2027, starting with 1.5% in July 2026.
• Negotiations stalled after six bargaining sessions and a Wisconsin Employment Relations Commission mediation in which a mediator declared an impasse.
• The Milwaukee Teachers' Education Association filed a prohibited practice complaint alleging the district failed to bargain in good faith and interfered with members’ rights.
• District leaders cite a $46 million shortfall and plan to cut nearly 200 positions, with a pledge to rehire about 100 classroom staff using federal funds.
• The sides dispute savings from delaying raises, with MPS citing up to $20 million and the union pointing to a $2.2 million gap, as teachers recently blocked several blocks outside headquarters to protest cuts.