Alberta Teachers Strike and Lockout: Key Facts
As Alberta teachers negotiate wage increases and classroom supports, a potential teachers strike looms across the province. With the previous agreement expired on August 31, 2024, tensions are high. Families, staff, and students are preparing for disruptions, while the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) and the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) continue talks.
What Teachers Are Demanding
Over the last 12 years, teachers have received only a six per cent wage increase. However, their concerns go beyond salary. Rising class sizes and increasing student complexity are major challenges.
A recent survey revealed 69 per cent of teachers reported larger class sizes, with 40 per cent teaching more than 30 students. Around 90 per cent of educators noted heightened complexity in student needs, and 58 per cent observed declining support for special needs students.
The ATA seeks stronger supports, classroom resources, and a fairer wage grid in the new collective agreement.
Province’s Offer and Negotiation Challenges
Earlier this year, a mediator proposed a 12 per cent general wage increase over four years. The deal included over $400 million for classroom improvements and a process to address classroom complexity.
Teachers, however, rejected the proposal, with 62 per cent voting against it. The ATA originally requested $11.35 billion in the provincial budget, while the 2025 allocation earmarked $9.9 billion, providing just $3.57 per student daily, compared with the $10 national average.
Minister of Treasury Board and Finance Nate Horner expressed optimism that both sides will reach a “fair and reasonable settlement.”
How a Teachers Strike or Lockout Could Play Out
If negotiations stall, Alberta could see rotating teachers strikes. These strikes may target specific times, including lunch supervision, recess, before- and after-school programs, or extracurricular activities. Full school days could also be affected, rotating across different school boards. Teachers must give a 72-hour notice before striking, allowing families time to plan childcare.
Conversely, TEBA could initiate a lockout, restricting teachers from working to pressure the ATA into agreement. This could involve securing school facilities and altering access until a deal is reached. TEBA plans a vote on a potential lockout on Friday.
Preparing for Potential Disruptions
Families and students should stay informed about notices from the ATA and school boards. With both strike and lockout possibilities, contingency planning for childcare and school schedules is advised.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for real-time updates on Alberta teachers’ negotiations and school impacts.
