Families Face Uncertainty Over Alberta Teachers Strike
Parents across Alberta are bracing for the potential impact of an Alberta teachers strike that could also disrupt childcare options. With the school year fast approaching, many families are left wondering whether students will be in classrooms or if educators will walk off the job.
In June, an overwhelming 94% of the 39,000 teachers who voted supported strike action. That decision gave educators until October 7 to take action, which means Alberta families are now facing a possible strike that could significantly affect daily routines and childcare planning.
Childcare Concerns if Strike Moves Ahead
A major challenge for parents is childcare. Out-of-school care (OSC) facilities traditionally operate before and after school, not during class hours. However, a strike would change that dynamic.
“Normally, we can’t operate during school hours,” explained Annalise Yuzda, vice president of childcare for YMCA Northern Alberta. “But during a teacher strike, the government could mandate us to extend care and provide daytime services.”
The Ministry of Education and Childcare has clarified that schools would, in fact, be considered closed during a strike. That distinction means licensed OSC programs can legally provide full-day care as long as they continue to meet provincial requirements.
Ministry Response and Clarification
To ease confusion, Alberta’s Ministry of Education and Childcare confirmed that licensed programs such as YMCA OSCs are free to extend their hours during strikes.
“This means OSC programs can expand their services to full-time care for families impacted by a potential strike,” explained ministry press secretary Garrett Koehler. “Providers can also reach out to their licensing officer with any questions about adjusting operations.”
This reassurance brings some relief to parents, though staffing adjustments remain a hurdle. Yuzda noted that YMCA programs have managed similar situations before, redirecting staff to cover daytime shifts when schools were closed.
Limited Options Beyond OSC Programs
For families without access to an OSC program, choices may remain limited. The City of Edmonton confirmed it is not considering expanding day camp programs into the fall at this time but will continue monitoring the situation.
Parents searching for childcare alternatives can explore the provincial Child Care Lookup tool or call Child Care Connect at 1-844-644-5165.
Negotiations Continue as Deadline Nears
Talks between the Alberta Teachers’ Association and the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association are set to resume next week. Meanwhile, a vote on whether to lock out teachers is scheduled for August 29, keeping tensions high.
Until an agreement is reached, Alberta families remain in limbo—balancing uncertainty, preparing backup childcare, and waiting for official decisions that could reshape the school year.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the latest updates on this developing story.
