The True Post(Web News)The Alberta government has introduced the “Back to School Act” (Bill 2) to end the ongoing province-wide teachers’ strike and stabilize the education system.
The proposed law aims to ensure students return to class without further disruption and establish a fair, long-term agreement with teachers. Under the act, the terms of a proposed four-year deal will be legislated — including a 12% salary increase, up to 17% market adjustments, and the hiring of 3,000 new teachers and 1,500 education assistants from September 2024 to August 2028.
Premier Danielle Smith said the strike has gone on too long, emphasizing that “the priority must be Alberta’s students.” Treasury Board President Nate Horner called the move “a responsible step for children, teachers, and parents,” expressing hope that classes will resume by October 29.
The government rejected the Alberta Teachers’ Association’s demand for an additional $2 billion, calling it unrealistic. Justice Minister Mickey Amery stated that enforcing this law is necessary to protect students’ learning rights and restore normalcy in classrooms.
