Saskatchewan teachers will return to school on Monday—but it will be under “work-to-rule” conditions.
The week-long Easter break did not result in any progress in contract discussions between the Saskatchewan Teachers Federation and the provincial government. STF President Samantha Becotte says it is difficult to trust the government when it is unwilling to add one single line to the collective agreement.
“That the parties agree that the multi-year funding agreement and the accountability framework will be followed and honored. Sounds pretty simple. that was it. Just do what you say you’re committing to do. If government’s words were true, and they’re committed to carrying out the MFA and the MOU, then there should be no concern with adding this one line to the agreement with teachers,” Becotte states.
The STF says work-to-rule action will continue indefinitely.
“Work-to-rule is a job action and a sanction that restricts the hours that teachers provide service to 15 minutes before the school day begins and 15 minutes after the school day ends. It also removes all voluntary services provided from teachers including noon-hour supervision.”
As for noon hour supervision of students, it will be up to each school’s administration to inform parents about the plans for next week.
Becotte says graduation planning falls under “voluntary service” so teachers will not be participating, even though parents have the option of organizing graduation events.
In a written response, Minister of Education Jeremey Cockrill said, “It is very disappointing that once again the teachers’ union leadership are moving the goal posts and prioritizing job action that will directly impact students and families instead of returning to the bargaining table to reach a fair deal.” He adds that “the teachers’ union leadership has also refused to move from their initial proposals, which includes a 23.4 per cent salary increase.” He concluded by stating that the Government Trustee Bargaining Committee remains at the table, ready to reach a deal on behalf of students, teachers and families.
