The Alberta government plans to introduce legislation next Monday to resolve the ongoing teachers’ strike across the province, Premier Danielle Smith announced. The proposed Back to School Act, also known as Bill 2, aims to address the issues causing the strike and get students back to classrooms.
Since October 6, approximately 51,000 public, separate, and francophone school teachers in Alberta have been on strike, affecting about 750,000 students. The strike ensued following failed negotiations between the government and the Alberta Teachers’ Association, primarily focusing on salaries, class sizes, and support for students with diverse needs.
The government offered a 12% wage increase over four years and pledged to hire 3,000 additional teachers to alleviate overcrowded classrooms, a proposal that the teachers rejected. The fall legislative session, commencing with the throne speech, has sparked discussions about the looming back-to-work legislation expected to be introduced the following week.
Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi criticized the government’s decision to pursue legislation, branding it as an assault on teachers, public education, and workers’ unions. The teachers’ union expressed readiness to review the legislation once it is presented, emphasizing the importance of addressing teachers’ concerns and classroom improvements.
Thousands of educators gathered at the Alberta Legislature grounds in Edmonton, advocating for better support for the public education system. While some teachers expressed uncertainty about returning to work if mandated, union president Jason Schilling highlighted the desire for a negotiated settlement and teachers’ concerns being reflected in the legislation.
Finance Minister Nate Horner emphasized the government’s aim to end the strike, urging unions to engage in negotiations or request formal talks promptly. The legislative process for the bill’s passage was outlined, indicating an expedited timeline for discussions and potential enactment.
Education and Childcare Minister Demetrios Nicolaides highlighted the potential for a swift return to schools once the bill is passed, encouraging school boards to prepare for students’ reintegration. Amidst the looming legislative developments, students and educators expressed concerns about the impact of a sudden return to classrooms on their academic routines and stress levels.