Sask. Teachers Give Notice for One-Day Strike
The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) is providing a five-day advance notice for a scheduled one-day strike on Tuesday, exceeding the legal 48-hour requirement. This move is intended to give families adequate time to prepare and to encourage the provincial government to revisit their stance.
STF President Samantha Becotte expressed the reluctance of teachers to disrupt the school year and their efforts to resume negotiations with the government. She highlighted the need for a new agreement that addresses class size and complexity, criticizing the government’s approach as politically driven and detrimental to student learning.
An online information session for parents and caregivers is scheduled for Sunday at 7 p.m., accessible through STF’s website. Becotte emphasizes the shared goals of teachers and parents in advocating for quality public education in Saskatchewan. She urges community involvement in urging government action to provide necessary educational resources.
While the STF has not announced further strikes, the focus remains on reaching an agreement. Becotte urges school boards to advocate for renewed government engagement in negotiations, emphasizing a mutual interest in educational improvements.
In response to the strike announcement, Education Minister Jeremy Cockrill stated the government’s ongoing participation in bargaining talks. He referenced recent initiatives to address classroom complexity and defended the government’s proposal as fair, focusing on competitive teacher salaries and benefits.
Saskatoon Grade 12 student Serena Millan expressed her frustration over the education challenges in Saskatchewan, particularly with finals approaching. She empathizes with teachers, citing large class sizes, insufficient resources, and increased classroom violence as major concerns. Millan supports the strike, hoping it leads to an agreement that addresses teachers’ needs and ensures that their voices are heard and understood.
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