Alberta Teachers’ Strike Enters Second Day, Sets Historical Precedent

EDMONTON – Alberta’s teachers have initiated a provincewide strike that began on October 6, 2025, marking the largest labour walkout in the province’s history. The strike involves approximately 51,000 members of the Alberta Teachers’ Association and affects more than 740,000 students across 2,500 public, separate, and francophone schools.

This significant action has drawn attention from labour experts, including Jason Foster, a labour relations professor at Athabasca University. He emphasizes that this strike surpasses the previous teachers’ strike in 2002, which involved less than half the current number of participants.

Disputes Over Wages and Working Conditions

The conflict centers on ongoing disputes regarding wages and working conditions. The provincial government recently proposed a 12 percent wage increase spread over four years and the hiring of 3,000 additional teachers to alleviate overcrowding in classrooms. This offer, however, has been rejected by the teachers.

The current strike comes at a time when educational demands are high, and teachers are advocating for better conditions to support their students. The implications of the strike extend beyond the classroom, impacting families and communities throughout the province.

As the situation develops, the response from both the provincial government and the Alberta Teachers’ Association will be critical in determining the next steps in negotiations and the potential for resolution. The ongoing strike underscores the challenges facing educators and the need for a sustainable solution that addresses their concerns.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on October 7, 2025, and will continue to evolve as further developments occur.