The Alberta Teachers’ Association’s (ATA) Central Table Bargaining Committee (CTBC) recently spent two full days negotiating with the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) on October 28 and 29. While discussions remained professional, it became apparent that the two sides would need support to address those issues with significant cost and complexity from the initial proposal. To bridge this gap, both parties agreed to bring in a mediator for assistance on these crucial items.
Where are we on the path to a collective agreement?
Why mediation?
Mediation is a standard tool in labour negotiations and does not indicate that talks have failed. Both the ATA and TEBA remain committed to reaching an agreement, with additional meeting dates scheduled for late November and early December. The role of a mediator is to attempt to help the bargaining teams to resolve the major items in dispute, while other issues may progress through further direct discussions between the two parties. This approach reflects a joint effort to keep negotiations moving and avoid any potential impasse.
Bringing teachers’ stories to the table
Bargaining discussions focused on significant proposals related to assignable/instruction time, inclusion, classroom complexity (class size and composition), administrators and substitute teachers.
To underscore the realities teachers face, five educators — representing a range of roles, from classroom teachers to administrators — recently shared their experiences directly with both the ATA and TEBA. These educators voiced their daily struggles with passion, courage and conviction, emphasizing that current conditions are unsustainable, and that change is necessary.
Stay informed and united
The ATA encourages all members to remain informed and united.
Virtual Member Information Meetings (MiMs) took place on November 18, 19 and 20 and gave teachers an opportunity to receive updates on the bargaining process and ask questions about mediation. These sessions aim to keep members engaged and informed every step of the way. Teachers can also stay informed online, with the initial proposal and bargaining updates available in the Collective Bargaining section of the ATA website.
The bargaining process remains ongoing, and the CTBC remains committed to advocating for teachers’ needs and improving conditions for both educators and students across Alberta. ❚
Teachers are invited to show their support and solidarity with the bargaining team by wearing red on Fridays and on negotiation days.
Want to share a snap of your own team donning "Red fo Ed?"
Email managing editor Lindsay Yakimyshyn at lindsay.yakimyshyn@ata.ab.ca.
Create your own RED FOR ED wear
Visit albertateachersassociation.entripyshops.com to customize and order “Red for Ed” branded apparel – hats, hoodies and more!
The online shop rotates graphics every few months, so check out the current styles now.
