The Saskatchewan Teachers Federation says approximately 3500 members are marching around the legislature, as they rally to try and get the government to come back to the bargaining table to talk about class size and class complexity as part of the deal.
“We are very grateful for the number of teachers and supporters who were able to make it to the Legislative Building this morning as MLAs returned for the spring session,” says Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation President Samantha Becotte. “I also thank the striking teachers and supporters who are spending the day contacting government officials from other locations, since they couldn’t get to Regina safely after the snowstorm. The level of support we’ve seen is a sign to teachers across the province that Saskatchewan people share our goal of achieving long-term funding commitments that will improve the classroom experience for students. And it is a clear signal to government that we are united, we are supported and we are not backing down.”
At a separate news announcement this morning, Premier Scott Moe was asked about the teacher’s strike. The premier pointed out he respects the teachers standing up for their profession, but they need to come to the bargaining table.
“To bargain for 30 minutes in the last five months is not representing teachers very well.” the premier said. “And I would say its not the appropriate effort to keep kids in the classroom.”
The government is refusing to bargain over class size and class complexity at the provincial level. Instead it is offering money to the individual school districts to work those issues out on a division by division basis. Teachers have so far refused to come to the bargaining table unless these issues are discussed.
“Students, families and teachers are in this situation because this government simply will not listen,” says Becotte. “For years, they have not listened to parents, teachers, trustees and other experts in the education sector who have been raising alarm bells about underfunding. Today, we bring those concerns to their doorstep. Enough is enough.”
