Alberta Teachers Return to School Feeling the Strain: What It Means for Calgary

Calgary’s education system is grappling with profound challenges, as teachers across Alberta voice feelings of demoralization. This sentiment, brought to light by Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides in a recent Real Talk discussion, deeply impacts Calgary, where educators are foundational to the city’s future and daily family life.

The strain follows a three-week province-wide teachers' strike, which began October 6, 2025, and involved over 51,000 educators. This historic walkout, impacting more than 740,000 students, including over 142,000 in Calgary alone, focused on critical issues like class sizes, classroom complexity, and teacher compensation.

The strike concluded abruptly with the provincial government's implementation of back-to-work legislation (Bill 2) on October 28, 2025, compelling teachers back to classrooms on October 29. While a 12 percent salary increase over four years and commitments to hire more staff and build new schools were part of the mandated resolution, the legislation also invoked the notwithstanding clause, barring future strike action until 2028.

This "critical moment," marked by student walkouts in solidarity with teachers on October 30, 2025, highlights ongoing concerns. Recent data reveals Alberta teachers face the highest occupational stress levels globally, working 47 hours weekly – five more than the international average. Furthermore, only 13 percent feel valued by policymakers, a sharp decline since 2018.

For Calgary families, the ripple effects are tangible. Parents have already resorted to tutors due to overcrowded classrooms, and school boards like the CBE and Calgary Catholic School District are now prioritizing student and teacher well-being over an immediate return to full curriculum. Extracurriculars and field trips may face delays. As Calgary's population booms, ensuring teachers feel supported is paramount for maintaining educational quality and stability.