Alberta Teacher Strike Halts Student Practicums Amid Dispute

EDMONTON – A significant strike by educators in Alberta has disrupted the practicum schedules of university students training to become teachers. The strike, now entering its second week, has affected approximately 740,000 students across the province, forcing many aspiring educators to reassess their plans.

Haley Roberts, a 22-year-old student at the University of Alberta, was set to begin her nine-week Grade 4 practicum on October 6, 2025, the same day teachers walked off the job. With a passion for working with children, Roberts has spent her time as a swim instructor and is now pursuing a degree in elementary education. “It’s just quite fulfilling,” she stated, reflecting on her commitment to teaching.

The strike results from ongoing tensions between the provincial government and the Alberta Teachers’ Association. Finance Minister Nate Horner mentioned that the government received a new proposal from the teachers’ union after a previous offer, which included a 12 percent pay increase over four years, was overwhelmingly rejected by educators. The stalemate has led to a lack of communication and uncertainty for students like Roberts, who need practical experience to graduate.

As the negotiations resume, the implications for students remain unclear. Roberts noted there was a “lot of hopeful uncertainty” leading up to the strike, with minimal information from university facilitators. The practicum is crucial for students, who require a total of ten weeks of practical experience. “The practicum is kind of where you get to put all of that into play,” said Roberts, expressing frustration over the lack of clarity regarding their training.

Another student, Jillian Gulli, also faced disruption as her Grade 6 practicum was postponed. With graduation approaching in January, Gulli needs at least six more weeks of practical experience to complete her degree. “We actually didn’t hear anything from the U of A at all until three days before the strike, so that also added to some stress,” she explained, revealing the anxiety felt by many students.

The University of Alberta has not provided official comments regarding the situation. A spokesperson for the university’s dean of education, Jennifer Tupper, declined to comment on the ongoing strike and its impact on students.

Union president Jason Schilling has criticized the provincial government for what he describes as chronic underfunding of classrooms, which he argues has led to the current crisis. In response, Horner maintains that the government’s last proposal was fair and has urged the union to return with a reasonable counteroffer.

Both Roberts and Gulli expressed their commitment to teaching in Alberta, despite the challenges posed by the strike. “My bubble hasn’t been burst yet,” Gulli stated, emphasizing her determination to pursue her career aspirations in education.

As discussions continue, the future of the strike and its impact on education in Alberta remains uncertain. The situation highlights the broader issues of funding and support for teachers in the province and raises questions about the future of education for both current students and future generations.

This report was first published by The Canadian Press on October 15, 2025.