STF president Samantha Becotte (file photo)

By Susan McNeil

Teachers reject deal

Teachers reject deal

May 30, 2024 | 7:25 PM

Saskatchewan teachers have rejected a tentative contract reached after months of negotiations between the STF, the province and school boards.

Teachers voted over the last two days but have turned down the offer by 55 per cent.

The STF said on Thursday evening that 88 per cent of eligible voters cast a ballot.

“We take our direction from the membership, and members have spoken. The result of this vote is a message to government and the Saskatchewan School Boards Association that teachers need to see real changes to classroom complexity and compensation. In feedback from members, we heard clearly that their priorities haven’t been adequately addressed,” said Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation President Samantha Becotte.0

“In the days leading up to this vote, I stressed that the fight for public education will continue, and our members will determine which forum that battle will take place in. The STF Executive and I will do whatever it takes, for as long as it takes, to get a deal done with the support of our collective to strengthen our profession and public education for current and future students.”

Pa Votes 2024

LIVE: Results of the municipal election

15h ago

Missing persons

Prince Albert missing persons case approaches one year anniversary

18h ago

Shopting Little Red River

Shooting at Little Red puts two men behind bars

20h ago

Several weeks ago, teachers voted overwhelmingly in favour of renewing job sanctions in the fall for the start of the new year.

The agreement that was rejected included an additional $18 million per year towards classroom complexity and the inclusion of several references to provide greater transparency and teacher voice in the allocation of classroom support funding.

The STF will hold a news conference tomorrow morning to answer more questions about how far the sanctions will go.

Becotte said the STF bargaining committee has extended an offer to the province to return to bargaining.

If the government and the SSBA decline the invitation, or talks break down, 48 hours’ notice will be given prior to the resumption of job action, as has been the case with previous job action.

So far, action has been limited to occasional one-day strikes, or withdrawing services for any extra-curricular activities, such as sports or after school clubs.

As graduation approaches, parents will be watching to see how the decision impacts the rest of the year.

READ MORE: Teachers, STF reach tentative deal