Division News

Labour Updates

Labour Updates

The Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) and the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) are currently in provincial bargaining. TEBA represents the Government of Alberta and all school divisions. Northland School Division is not directly involved in this process.

Current Situation

Classes in Northland schools are continuing as normal. 

ATA Public Announcement

On September 24, 2025, The Government of Alberta, through the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA), and the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) have reached a tentative agreement in central negotiations.

A Memorandum of Agreement has been signed and is being shared with ATA members. Both TEBA and the ATA will now move into a faster ratification process, with a final decision expected by October 1, 2025. The ATA has indicated that strike action would happen if a deal is not reached by October 6, 2025.

ATA Strike Vote

In June, ATA members voted in favour of a strike. If the ATA decides to begin job action, it must give school divisions 72 hours’ notice. The ATA has up to 120 days from the June vote, which means until October 7th, to begin job action.

TEBA lockout vote

On August 29th, TEBA held a vote to allow a lockout if the ATA begins strike action. The Labour Relations Board confirmed the vote is valid. This does not mean a lockout will happen. TEBA has said there are no plans for a proactive lockout.

Bargaining Process

Central bargaining in Alberta happens between the ATA and TEBA. This means items such as teacher salaries and benefits are negotiated provincially, not by individual school divisions. Local bargaining can only begin once central bargaining is complete.

Staying Informed

Northland will continue to follow direction from Alberta Education and share updates as new information becomes available. Families and staff can find updates through:

  • Northland School Division website
  • Northland School Division Facebook page
  • School Facebook pages
  • Letters to families
  • School Messenger

Are schools open?

Yes. All Northland schools are open, and classes are continuing as normal.

Has a strike or lockout been called?

Yes. The Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) issued formal strike notice to the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) on September 12th. This means strike action will begin on October 6th if a new agreement is not reached before then.

TEBA held a lockout vote on August 29th. The Labour Relations Board confirmed the vote is valid. This does not mean a lockout will happen. TEBA has said there are no plans for a proactive lockout.

What could job action look like?

At this time, we do not yet know what the strike action or any potential lockout will look like. We will share information and direction with staff once details are confirmed.

How will families be informed of any changes?

We will share updates through the Northland School Division website, the Division Facebook page, local school Facebook pages, and School Messenger.

How should families prepare?

Families are encouraged to plan ahead in case classes are cancelled. 

If classes are cancelled due to a strike or lockout, will schools provide childcare during the day?

Northland School Division does not provide childcare services.