Teachers on strike in Shellbrook. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Job Action

‘We’re fighting for our students’: Teachers hit picket line in front of Premier’s office

Feb 16, 2024 | 2:01 PM

Main Street in Shellbrook was jam-packed on Friday with teachers from in and around Prince Albert.

They were taking part in one of two rallies organized by the Saskatchewan Teachers Federation (STF) as negotiations with the province continue to go nowhere.

Shellbrook was chosen as its home to Premier Scott Moe’s constituency office, while the other rally happened in North Battleford since that’s where Education Minister Jeremy Cockrill is situated.

This is the fourth time teachers in the Prince Albert area have been on strike in the past month. Kelsie Boy, a teacher at Carlton Comprehensive Public High School, told paNOW the whole situation is frustrating as the province’s refusal to consider class sizes and complexity is forcing them to interrupt their student’s education.

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“I don’t really love that we have to use that as a way to find more happiness for them in school. (However) if this is the only way we can [get a deal] then that’s what we need to do.”

Kelsie Boy with her dog Huckleberry. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

Boy isn’t the only teacher feeling this way. Erin Dyck, a teacher at Riverside Public School, explained she’s upset the province has let it get this far.

“We’re fighting for our students and families; we’re trying to make sure they can be best supported in every way we possibly can,” she said.

Erin Dyck. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

Another teacher who took part in the rally was Erin Callaghan. She teaches at Big River Public High School, just under an hour away from the Town.

Despite the long drive, she said it was important to take part as she believes this job action will help in the long run.

“The education system is broken right now and it’s doing a very huge disservice to our kids… it will be worth it.”

Erin Callaghan (right) with fellow teachers from Big River Public High School. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

Meanwhile, the STF is planning additional job action following the February break.

They haven’t specified what it’ll be, however, the union explained they’ll give 48 hours’ notice before making any decision.

Teachers on strike in Shellbrook. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

Teachers on strike in Shellbrook. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

A teacher on strike in Shellbrook. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

Teachers on strike in Shellbrook. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow