Alberta Students Return to Class as Teachers’ Strike Ends

Students across Alberta returned to classrooms on October 11, 2023, following a significant teachers’ strike that lasted for over a month. The provincial government invoked the notwithstanding clause to bring the strike, which began on October 6, to an end. Approximately 750,000 students were affected by the disruption, prompting a range of concerns about the implications for the remainder of the academic year.

As families express relief over students’ return, critical questions remain unanswered regarding potential extensions to the school year, the possibility of any further job actions by teachers, and the status of extracurricular activities. Currently, the outlook is unclear. In a communication to parents, Edmonton Public Schools confirmed that the scheduled fall break will proceed as planned, citing its inclusion in the collective agreement.

The school division has yet to determine whether additional instructional days will be added to the calendar. “Our focus now is on a transition back to full-time learning and ensuring that student routines are re-established as quickly as possible,” the letter stated. Any changes to the school year calendar would require approval from the newly appointed board of trustees, who will take their oaths on Friday.

Similarly, Edmonton Catholic Schools indicated it would also continue with the fall break as scheduled. The division is currently exploring all available options and assured parents that any updates regarding the school schedule would be communicated promptly. A spokesperson noted, “Changing the school calendar at this time would affect staffing, transportation, and family plans already in place.”

Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides expressed optimism about being able to make a decision on January’s provincial assessment tests soon. He acknowledged the concerns surrounding students’ learning losses and the frustration of teachers. “We know that, of course, teachers are incredibly frustrated by this decision, but both the premier and I want to work very carefully with them,” Nicolaides stated.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Nate Horner mentioned that while local discussions can continue, the province has effectively removed the ability for teachers to strike or lockout. He emphasized that if constructive discussions occur at local levels, positive changes could be implemented.

The recent legislation, Bill 2 – the Back to School Act, was passed in the early hours of October 10, 2023, and received royal assent the same day. This bill enforces a four-year collective contract and prohibits any form of strike action, including work-to-rule, for the 51,000 members of the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA). It includes penalties of up to $500 per day for individuals and $500,000 per day for organizations that violate the back-to-work order.

The contract stipulates a 12 percent salary increase over four years, along with potential market adjustments of up to 17 percent for certain teachers, although this agreement has previously faced rejection from teaching staff. The contract is retroactive from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2028.

ATA President Jason Schilling voiced concerns regarding the impact of the new bill on teachers’ voluntary commitments. “Because the bill prohibits any kind of work-to-rule along with hefty fines, teachers need to evaluate and reevaluate how they’re spending their voluntary time at school,” he remarked. Schilling indicated that while teachers will still perform essential duties, they might reconsider engaging in extracurricular activities, such as coaching sports, unless they feel their rights are respected.

As the province navigates the aftermath of the strike, educators and families alike are left to ponder how the changes will shape the school experience for the remainder of the year. The government has assured that support will be provided to school boards as they adjust to the new requirements while focusing on restoring a sense of normalcy for students.