Edmonton (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta’s government has introduced Bill 2, the Back to School Act, a sweeping measure aimed at ending the province-wide teachers’ strike and restoring normalcy to classrooms disrupted for weeks by stalled negotiations. The proposed legislation seeks to legislate a new collective agreement and ensure that students can return to school without further loss of instructional time.
Premier Danielle Smith said the province could no longer allow the strike to continue, emphasizing that the prolonged shutdown was harming students’ academic progress and emotional well-being.
“This strike has gone on long enough,” Smith said in a statement Monday. “It’s clear there’s no path forward unless we act. The Back to School Act refocuses everyone on what matters most — the education of Alberta’s students. Bill 2 puts students back at the centre of our system, while we continue to work with teachers and families to build lasting stability in Alberta’s schools.”
Key Terms of the Proposed Agreement
If passed, Bill 2 would implement the September 2025 tentative agreement, which includes:
- A 12% salary increase spread over four years.
- Market adjustments of up to 17% for most teachers.
- Funding to hire 3,000 new teachers and 1,500 educational assistants across the province.
The agreement would remain in effect from September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2028.
According to Nate Horner, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance, the legislation is a necessary step to bring labour stability back to Alberta’s education system.
“The time for labour stability is now,” Horner said. “This legislation provides a positive path forward despite an interrupted school year. It’s the most responsible decision for kids, teachers and parents. If Bill 2 is passed, it is my hope that classes will resume as soon as Wednesday, October 29.”
Government Criticizes Union Demands
The government also accused the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) of presenting unrealistic financial demands during negotiations, including an additional $2 billion above the government’s final offer. Officials argued that such proposals made it clear the union was unwilling to reach a balanced compromise.
Use of Notwithstanding Clause to End Strike
In a move drawing significant attention, Justice Minister Mickey Amery confirmed that the government is prepared to invoke the notwithstanding clause to bring the strike to an immediate end if necessary.
“We believe invoking the notwithstanding clause is a necessary measure to end the undue hardship caused by the teacher strike,” Amery stated. “This strike has reached a point that is causing irreparable harm to student learning. Our government will not hesitate to use every available legal tool in defence of students.”
Focus on Student Learning and System Stability
The government says the legislation represents the only responsible path forward to restore stability, protect students, and refocus Alberta’s education system on teaching and learning. Officials maintain they remain committed to supporting teachers, improving classroom resources, and ensuring long-term labour peace.
If the Back to School Act passes, classes could resume as early as Wednesday, marking a turning point in one of Alberta’s most significant education labour disputes in recent years.
