The Alberta Teachers’ Strike 2025 marks a pivotal moment in provincial education history. With nearly 95% of Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) members voting in favour of strike action, the province faces potential classroom disruptions that could impact tens of thousands of students. This strike is not only about pay; it’s also about underfunded schools, increasing class sizes, and lack of essential support for students and teachers alike.

Table of Contents

• What’s Happening & Why
• Timeline & Legal Framework
• Root Causes: Funding, Class Sizes & Supports
• Impact on Students & Families
• Voices from Teachers & Parents
• Next Steps
• FAQs

What’s Happening & Why

Between June 5–8, 2025, nearly 39,000 ATA members voted on a strike mandate, with 95% supporting action should negotiations fail. ATA President Jason Schilling called the vote “an unmistakable message” about the urgent need for better funding, resources, and support in Alberta classrooms. Teachers are frustrated with years of stagnant budgets, increasing class sizes, and insufficient educational assistants.

Timeline & Legal Framework

After rejecting a proposed mediator deal — which included a 12% wage increase over four years and $400 million in classroom funding — the ATA entered a 120-day legal window for strike action. Teachers must provide 72-hour notice to school boards before striking. This means that strike action could begin as early as late June or at the start of the 2025–26 school year.

Root Causes: Funding, Class Sizes & Supports

Key factors driving the strike include:

• Funding Shortages: Alberta is below the national average in per-student funding, leaving schools struggling to maintain quality education.
• Class Sizes: Overcrowded classrooms make teaching effectively difficult, especially in urban areas.
• Lack of Support Staff: Educational assistants, counsellors, and mental health supports remain insufficient.
• Teacher Burnout: Rising workloads and limited resources contribute to stress and attrition.

Impact on Students & Families

Parents and students are bracing for disruptions. Some school boards are developing contingency plans, while others warn that full-time classes may not be possible during prolonged negotiations. Special education programs are particularly vulnerable to disruption, highlighting the need for careful planning if strike action occurs.

Voices from Teachers & Parents

“Alberta teachers are united. We are determined to ensure students receive the education and support they deserve.”

— ATA President Jason Schilling

“I will be voting strike. Salaries are falling behind and class sizes are unsustainable.”

— Alberta teacher, Reddit discussion

“Without support staff, classrooms struggle to meet the needs of all students, especially those with special requirements.”

— Concerned parent, Alberta

Next Steps

Negotiations continue with the provincial government. The ATA has emphasized that while strike action remains a possibility, they are committed to reaching a solution through dialogue if the government presents meaningful funding and class-size reductions. Families should monitor official ATA updates for strike notices and school board announcements for contingency plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the ATA vote on strike action?

June 5–8, 2025.

What percentage voted in favour?

Approximately 95% supported strike action.

What are the main reasons for the strike?

Funding shortages, overcrowded classrooms, lack of support staff, and teacher burnout.

Could the strike affect the start of the school year?

Yes, if negotiations fail, strike action could begin with 72 hours’ notice, potentially disrupting September classes.

Is there still a chance for a deal?

Yes, the ATA continues to negotiate with the provincial government, hoping for a fair resolution without strike action.