Uncertainty looms over back-to-school season for parents this year, as students’ scheduled return to classrooms in September could be met with a labour disruption.
Negotiations are ongoing between the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) and Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association. The teachers’ union overwhelmingly voted in favour of a strike in June. In response, the provincial body has applied for a lockout vote.
In a statement to CBC News, the Calgary Board of Education said it remains committed to starting the school year on Sept. 2 — but with formal mediation continuing from Aug. 26 to 29, and a labour disruption possible at any moment, many Alberta parents are worried about a possible delay to their children’s return to school.
Back-to-school plans left in limbo for parents ahead of possible labour disruption
Calgary parent Calista Dennis is excited for her five-year-old son to start kindergarten next month, but she’s concerned abut the possibility of a strike or lockout.
“That would be a shock,” she said of a strike impacting her child’s first day of school. “For my son, I know that would be kind of disruptive, kind of disappointing.”
Dennis said many young learners are already apprehensive about starting or returning to school, so any disruption could lead to even more confusion and frustration.
As a stay-at-home mom who works remotely, Dennis said she could accommodate having her son at home if the start of the school year is pushed back. But she acknowledged that’s not a luxury most parents have.
“That’s not really how most of society runs for a lot of people,” she said. “And even then, kids should be in school learning.”
