Listening, engaging and moving forward

The Alberta Teachers’ Association’s (ATA) history of success in supporting teachers in this province goes back to 1918. First known as the Alberta Teachers’ Alliance, the organization’s goal was to improve the working lives of teachers. A seemingly simple aim, yet one that not only established but also continuously reaffirmed the professionalism and value of teachers for more than a century. In the ATA’s 108 years, there have only been eight executive secretaries at the helm, and I am truly humbled and honured to be the ninth executive secretary. Stepping into this role, I will do my best to uphold the objects and values of the ATA, and you, its members.

I am committed to working with you and your elected representatives as we continue to advocate for better, sustainable funding and supports for the public education system.

This past year has had more than its share of ups and downs, and I am aware of the frustrations that some of our members have with the ATA. I am hoping to turn that around. Part of my plan to do that is to be more visible at ATA events, and if you see me, I invite you to come say hello. I am happy to discuss issues with members so that I can better understand and address concerns, and provide insights into our processes where helpful. Transparency is vital and I want to demonstrate that to you. 

I will also continue working closely with Provincial Executive Council—your elected representatives—to proactively advance the teaching profession and public education in Alberta. As executive secretary, I can explain the operational side of actions taken by the ATA, while Council is available to explain the political aspect of decisions made and directions taken.

School council representatives or local executive members may start seeing me at local meetings, as I plan to attend them whenever my schedule allows. This will allow me to hear your concerns, alongside your district representatives, so that we can work together to make change happen where possible. Attending local meetings also creates opportunities for me to communicate key ATA messages and information directly to our teacher–leaders, which will equip these members with deeper understanding of ATA processes they can share with colleagues. 

Another priority for the ATA, and me as executive secretary, relates to bargaining. Following the implementation of the imposed legislated settlement last October, the ATA clearly heard that members were not happy with how bargaining played out. While the blame for the imposed settlement lies at the feet of the provincial government, Council understood that a review of our bargaining processes was in order and struck a committee to review our structures and provide recommendations to Council prior to the next round of bargaining in 2028. The committee, made up of field members and an independent bargaining expert as cochair, has been active since spring 2026, reviewing ATA bargaining guidelines and processes, as well as feedback from members gathered through research conducted by a third party. The committee will be reporting its findings and recommendations to Council later this fall and information will subsequently be shared with members in a way that is transparent but also mindful of privacy and regulations related to the labour code. It is my hope that members are satisfied with the review and any outcomes so we can move forward, unified as a profession, and position ourselves effectively for 2028.

A final priority is the implementation of the ATA’s new database and information portal, MIDAS (Member Information Data Access System). MIDAS will allow members to update their profile more easily, register for ATA events, find information more quickly and stay informed. The online portal will also streamline our web presence and eliminate the need for the legacy site. Members will be able to sign up for regular communications from the ATA, and I encourage you to do so. Our strength comes from our unity and from members being well-informed and connected. 

While these are just three key ways we’re moving forward in the immediate future, I am committed to working with you and your elected representatives as we continue to advocate for better, sustainable funding and supports for the public education system. 
You, the teachers of Alberta, help make the province’s public education system one of the best in the world. My goal is to maintain that standing by representing and supporting you as best I can, upholding the ATA’s longstanding aim of improving the working lives of teachers. 

I welcome your comments and questions. You may reach me at robert.mazzotta@ata.ab.ca.