In a record voter turnout of nearly 36,000 members, 62 per cent of teachers voted to reject the mediator’s recommendations for a collective agreement between the province’s school boards and teachers. The high voter turnout highlights teachers’ significant concerns regarding the increasing complexity of Alberta classrooms and the failure of the recommendations to adequately address these concerns.
“Alberta teachers are deeply committed to their work and to ensuring every student learns in strong, supportive conditions—conditions this government must urgently improve.”
—ATA President Jason Schilling
Teachers will now enter a 14-day cooling off period and meet to discuss next steps. A strike authorization vote will then be held. If that is passed, teachers will move to a formal strike vote. With that in place, teachers will then have 120 days to initiate a strike. In the interim, the parties may continue to seek resolution.
“Change is needed for students, for classrooms and for public education in Alberta.”
—ATA President Jason Schilling
Negotiations between the representatives of teachers and the province proceeded to mediation in January, with the mediator releasing a set of recommended terms for a settlement that was subject to ratification by both sides. Teachers cast their votes online between May 2 and 5.
The Alberta Teachers’ Association, as the professional organization of teachers, promotes and advances public education, supports teachers’ professional practice and serves as the advocate for its 51,000 members.