Parents, students, and educators throughout Alberta are getting ready for the resumption of classes following the government’s intervention to end a three-week-long strike by teachers. Following the passing of Bill 2, also known as the Back to School Act, in the early hours of Tuesday, school boards have begun informing parents about the planned return on Wednesday morning.
Since October 6, teachers have been on strike due to failed contract negotiations and the rejection of two proposed deals. The Edmonton Catholic School Division has confirmed that schools will reopen, with a similar announcement from the Edmonton Public School Board emphasizing a swift return to normalcy.
In line with this, both Calgary’s public and Catholic school boards, as well as Rocky View Schools, have announced the resumption of classes on Wednesday. Over 51,000 teachers have been striking, affecting approximately 750,000 students attending public, Catholic, and francophone schools.
Sarah Hamilton, an education professor at Mount Royal University, highlighted the varying degrees of educational engagement students experienced during the strike. She emphasized the challenges some parents face in supporting their children’s learning and the potential longer process of academic catch-up. Hamilton stressed the importance of rebuilding routines and structures for children, acknowledging the time it will take.
Transitioning from strike to work mode, teachers are swiftly preparing lesson plans, according to Vanessa Amyotte, a teacher and president of the Alberta Teachers’ Association’s Evergreen Catholic Local 44. Amyotte expressed anticipation for the return to normalcy but noted widespread discontent with how the contract dispute unfolded, describing the government’s actions as disproportionate.
Lisa Paradis from Leduc has been assisting her high school children in readjusting to a regular schedule and staying informed about the strike developments. While her kids are eager to return to school, Paradis expressed frustration over the situation, concerned about the educational support they missed during the strike. As an education assistant, she observed a reduction in such supports and plans to have her children wear red as a symbol of solidarity.
Grande Prairie teacher Jason Smith emphasized the importance of connecting with parents and students amid the uncertainty. Despite feeling stripped of rights due to the government’s legislative actions, Smith remains committed to welcoming students with a positive attitude. He aims to identify learning gaps and necessary support systems as a learning support teacher and program coordinator.