Schools were closed in Seattle on Wednesday as the city’s first teachers strike in 30 years entered its fifth day. Last week, teachers represented by the Seattle Education Association unanimously voted to strike in demand of fewer standardized tests for students, more time to prepare for classes and better pay.

The impasse between teachers and administrations has delayed the start of the public school year for about 53,000 students. The strike comes after Washington’s Supreme Court ruled earlier this month that the state’s new charter school system is unconstitutional.

“Democracy Now!” speaks with Garfield High School history teacher Jesse Hagopian and socialist Seattle City Councilwoman Kshama Sawant.

— Adapted from “Democracy Now!” by Alexander Reed Kelly.

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