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. No strike or lockout notice has been given at this time.

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?

No. The Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) members voted on June 10th in favour of strike action, and the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) held a lockout vote on August 29th. Neither side has issued notice. Both are required to give 72 hours’ notice before any action begins.

What could job action look like?

Job action could include a full strike or a lockout, which would result in cancelled classes and schools closed to students.

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 in case of a strike or lockout?

While no job action has been announced, families should plan ahead in case classes are cancelled. If this happens, there will be no in-person or online learning, and students will not attend school. Families will receive at least 72 hours’ notice before any job action begins.

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

No. If job action results in cancelled classes, students will not attend school in person or online. Northland School Division does not provide childcare services.