A possible teacher strike is looming following the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) strike authorization vote.
With a vote of 99 per cent, teachers across the province are calling for support from the provincial government.
Nearly 38,000 teachers cast their ballots online between May 22 - 26.
“Teachers are standing united in demanding respect and recognition for the challenges they experience in today’s classrooms,” said Jason Schilling, ATA President. “Settling for anything less than tangible solutions will not be tolerated.”
Some concerns for teachers include crowded and complex classrooms and a lack of wage increases.
At the beginning of May, 36,000 teachers voted against the Mediator’s Recommendations for a new Provincial Collective Agreement.
Now, the ATA’s Provincial Executive Council will determine the next steps, including the possibility of a formal strike vote, if a resolution is not reached.
The strike vote will take place between June 5 - 8. If passed, teachers will have 120 days to initiate a strike.
Christ the Redeemer Catholic School Division is waiting for communication from the province regarding any potential actions.
“As no vote has occurred nor any job action initiated, we continue to provide continuity of programming for our students and families,” the division said.
The Foothills School Division is hopeful that the ATA and the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) will return to the table with renewed focus on collaboration and resolution.
"We believe that a negotiated agreement—one that respects the voices of teachers and supports the needs of students—is still possible," the division said.
While the division understands and respects educators right to take action, they recognize that any potential labour action will have a significant impact on students and families.
"Disruptions to learning are never easy; in preparation for labour action, which may include work to rule or rotating strikes, the division is developing plans to best support student safety, success, and well-being," the division said. "We stand in support of respectful dialogue and a timely resolution that ensures a continuity of learning for all students."