A Teachers’ Strike is the last thing anyone wants. It is a massive disruption to students, teachers, and families with effects felt throughout the province. What we do want to see is teachers and students back in their classrooms this September. Our passion for finding this solution is the reason we are focused on negotiating an agreement that will not only work today, but one that will work for years to come. Classrooms throughout British Columbia are recognized for having some of the best outcomes in the world, and we intend to keep it that way.
Learn more about how BC Schools are leading the way on a Canada-wide level as well as throughout OECD countries.
Unfortunately, this is not an easy task. While we want to reach a labour agreement as soon as possible, we recognize that if one is not reached job action may continue into September. Should this happen, families throughout our province will immediately feel the effects. This is why we’ve set up a contingency plan.
The Temporary Education Support for Parents will provide some financial relief to parents in the event of a continued strike. Families can apply for this at BCParentInfo.ca, but remember, this is not mandatory. We know that not all families are in need, but we also know that for some, this temporary relief will be a huge help in easing the financial burden that comes with securing additional child care. Families that are not in need and would rather the money stay in the education system can leave their payment unclaimed. By alleviating some of the stress some families will experience, we are able to continue fighting for the future of your children’s education.
Additionally, BCParentInfo.ca provides families with up-to-date information on the status of the strike as well as access to further resources surrounding extended job action. Online learning resources for parents are included to help families keep their children engaged in age-appropriate learning activities while schools remain behind picket lines. Remember parents, this resource is for you. Share it amongst your fellow parents to ensure that no one is left in the dark.
Finding a deal and getting students and teachers back to school for September is this government’s top priority, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be prepared. It is very important that we mitigate the effect this has on our children and our families. Please visit BCParentInfo.ca to learn about the strike, apply for Temporary Education Support for Parents, and stay updated. We remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached soon.