The Government-Trustee Bargaining Committee and the Teachers’ Bargaining Committee met and reached a tentative Provincial Collective Bargaining Agreement on April 22.
The next steps include the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation taking it to its 13,000 teacher members to vote on the new contract.
“COVID-19’s impact on our communities over the last month has been significant on the education sector, our communities and each of us individually and professionally,” said Patrick Maze, President, Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation. “While the proposed settlement does not fully address all items the TBC sought resolution on in this round of bargaining, given the uncertainty caused by the pandemic the TBC felt it was necessary for members to vote on this offer.”
The Federation remains committed to solving class size and composition through ongoing advocacy and participation on a new class complexity committee.
“Our withdrawal of these issues from this round of bargaining in no way signals resolution or reduced importance of these issues,” said Maze. “Systematic changes take time and are often made incrementally. I believe we have advanced this issue significantly, and the Federation is unwavering in its dedication to address class complexity and ensure an adequately funded public education system in Saskatchewan.”
If ratified, the new agreement would be effective from September 1, 2019 to August 31, 2023, with salary increases of zero per cent in 2019, two per cent in 2020, two per cent in 2021 and two per cent in 2022.
There are also increases to allowances for principals, vice-principals and assistant principals of zero per cent in 2019, two per cent in 2020, two per cent in 2021 and two per cent in 2022.
“This tentative agreement balances our respect and appreciation for teachers with the fiscal realities of the province,” Deputy Premier and Education Minister Gordon Wyant said. “The terms of our offer mean that Saskatchewan teachers will have stability for years to come and be paid at five per cent above the Western Canadian average.”
Also part of the tentative new contract, at the beginning of each school year, all school boards will provide the STF with contact information of all approved substitute teachers. Any changes are to be reported to the STF monthly.
Teachers are expected to vote on the tentative agreement within the next four to six weeks. The Federation is finalizing details on how the vote will be conducted in a manner that ensures members’ health and safety in light of COVID-19 while also ensuring a rigorous process that is transparent and accountable. Details will be provided in the coming weeks.
