Teachers strike looms as Edmonton students return to the classroom

It’s back to school, and kids are making their return to the classroom at both Edmonton public and catholic schools, but some parents are wondering if it’ll be short-lived with a possible teacher’s strike looming across Alberta.

“I know the kids would probably like a break, but I think it would be a detriment to them to have to break up their schedule,” said John Lund, who has children in Grades 2, 4, and 7.

Carmel Tavares, who has Grade 4 and 6 students, says, “They’re almost at the age where they can find something to do, but we are concerned for their education, and if they’ll fall back.”

Friday, labour negotiations between the province and the teachers’ union stalled out. Tuesday morning, media was told by both the province and the Alberta Teachers Association that discussions hadn’t picked back up. 

Alberta teachers voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action early this summer, and could go on strike with just 72 hours’ notice to parents that classrooms will be closed.

Some parents are bracing for a potential break in their kids’ education.

“Luckily, we can both work from home for a little bit, and our employers are pretty reasonable, but yeah, it would make life more difficult,” said Brent Marshall, who has kids in kindergarten and Grade 1.

Nadia Lynne Valencia, who has a kid in Grade 6, adds, “Those parents that are working full-time, two jobs, and that’s what’s supporting them, I’m afraid for them.”