A new study from University of Ottawa researchers has revealed alarming levels of violence and harassment faced by education workers in Saskatchewan, prompting renewed calls for action from the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) and the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF). The study highlights that the majority of incidents are student-initiated, and both teachers and support staff are regularly exposed to physical and verbal aggression.
Key findings from the survey show that:
- Nearly 75% of respondents experienced at least one attempt of physical force by a student.
- 85% witnessed a student-initiated act, attempt, or threat of violence against a colleague.
- 78% reported experiencing harassment, including refusal to respect authority, offensive language, and disrespectful behaviour.
- More than half of respondents (54%) encountered harassment from parents.
"Education support workers have been underfunded and overburdened for years, but we’re at a breaking point now,” said Karla Sastaunik, chairperson of CUPE Saskatchewan’s Education Workers’ Steering Committee. “Our members face violence regularly, and it’s unacceptable. We need more staff and better funding for our schools, and we hope Saskatchewan voters push for this change in the upcoming election."
The lack of resources and support for addressing student needs has normalized violence and harassment as “part of the job,” according to the study. This has had a serious impact on the physical and mental health of education workers, many of whom report feeling burnt out and dissatisfied with their jobs. The study also notes that students who witness violence are negatively affected, with their learning and emotional well-being suffering as a result.
Despite these challenges, only 6% of respondents felt that their schools’ responses to incidents of violence were "very effective." Many participants reported that their concerns were dismissed or ignored, with institutional responses often being reactive rather than proactive. Safety plans, which could address the issue, are often ineffective due to a lack of resources.
"Ensuring that schools are safe for both students and staff must be a priority for all officials responsible for education," said STF President Samantha Becotte. "Teachers and educational staff are frustrated by the lack of action to address violence and harassment. The STF’s 'Vote for Public Education' campaign is asking all parties and candidates in this fall’s provincial and school board elections to commit to addressing classroom violence."
The study, titled *Beyond the Breaking Point: Violence Against Saskatchewan’s Education Sector Workers*, surveyed teachers, educational assistants, custodial staff, and other education workers about their experiences during the 2022-23 school year. It found that 84% had experienced at least one act, attempt, or threat of physical force, while 87% reported harassment incidents.
"Violence and harassment are the result of students not receiving the support they need to succeed in the classroom," Becotte added. "For over a decade, teachers have been raising concerns about classroom violence, but underfunding has created a crisis in our schools."
The full report is available on the Violence and Harassment Against Educators Project website.