LAKELAND - Although 95 per cent of teachers voted in favour of a strike last month, it is business as usual at schools across the province.
In a letter to parents dated June 13, St. Paul Education Superintendent Dr. Peter Barron said the Alberta Teachers’ Association is expected to return to mediation with the province on June 19 – 20, and again at the end of August if needed.
“At this point, we do not know what form any potential job action may take - whether it will be a full provincial strike, rotating strikes, or other forms of labour action, such as work-to-rule (withdrawal of voluntary services). It is also possible that the nature of any job action may change over time,” said Barron.
According to the Alberta Labours Relations Board, the ATA will need to provide 72 hours' notice before the strike begins. The May strike vote is valid for 120 days.
“Our teachers remain dedicated to their roles and are committed to student learning. Their commitment is deeply valued, and we sincerely hope a fair and timely agreement can be reached,” said Barron.
The last offer from the province included a 12 per cent general wage increase over four years, a new common pay grid for all teachers in the province, a 20 per cent increase for substitute teachers, and improvements to benefits.
According to the ATA, “large class sizes, increasing classroom complexity, dwindling supports, and wages that do not account for these challenges or keep pace with inflation remain sticking points between teachers and their employers.”
