Colleagues,
Tomorrow, teachers across Alberta will rise together in a provincewide strike. Every teacher in public, separate and francophone schools will not go into work—not out of choice, but out of necessity.
Public education in Alberta has been in crisis for years. Class sizes have grown. Support has dwindled. Resources have been pushed beyond their breaking point. And through it all, teachers have held the line for students. But now, because this government has repeatedly failed to meet the needs of students, teachers and the public education system, we are taking a historic stand.
This strike did not have to happen. The government had every opportunity to do the right thing. To listen. To act. Instead, they ignored the warnings from teachers, parents, students and communities alike.
The time for excuses is over. The cracks have become chasms. The tipping point has come, and it has been years in the making.
Today is World Teachers’ Day, a day meant to honour the dedication, passion and impact of educators around the world. We are choosing to honour it in the most powerful way we can: by standing up for ourselves, our students and the future of public education in Alberta.
Tomorrow, we show this government what solidarity looks like. We remind them that we are not only teachers: we are advocates, protectors and builders of Alberta’s future.
Stand tall. Stand together. This is our moment. For our profession. For our students. For the future of public education in Alberta.
Your Association is here to support you. Please reach out to Teacher Employment Services with any questions: 1-800-232-7208.
Yours in solidarity,
Jason Schilling,
ATA President