Calgary Schools Set to Reopen Wednesday Following Strike Resolution

Teachers and students in Calgary will return to classrooms on Wednesday, following a provincewide strike that lasted three weeks. The Alberta government passed back-to-school legislation early on March 5, 2024, mandating the return of teachers and prohibiting any future strikes until 2028.

While the immediate return to school is confirmed, local school boards caution that a complete return to normal operations will take time. In a statement on the Calgary Catholic School Board’s district website, officials emphasized that the wellbeing of both students and teachers will be prioritized. Rather than resuming the full curriculum immediately, teachers will focus on “rebuilding relationships” with their students and addressing “essential learning outcomes.”

January diploma exams are still in question, as the school board awaits direction from the government on whether these exams will proceed as scheduled. If they are canceled, the designated exam days may serve as instructional time instead.

Adjustments to School Activities and Calendar

School calendars will remain unchanged, including professional growth days, bell times, and holidays. Extracurricular programs, athletics, and arts activities will gradually resume in the coming weeks, although specific timelines for these activities are not yet clear. The Hockey Canada Skills Academy is set to restart next week.

The Calgary Board of Education is also implementing a similar phased approach to the return of students. In a letter issued to parents, the board noted that various activities such as performances, field trips, and school council meetings may be delayed, rescheduled, or canceled as schools adjust back to regular operations.

As outlined in the letter, “We can expect it will take some time for a full return to normal operations.”

Parents are encouraged to check the respective school board websites for updates regarding the transition. As of Tuesday noon, it has been confirmed that all schools and learning facilities will reopen on Wednesday, and parents can expect further communications via email or through the websites of the Calgary school boards.

The focus will be on ensuring a supportive environment for students as they adjust back to school life after the disruption caused by the strike.