A recent survey conducted by the Angus Reid Institute indicates that Alberta teachers who are currently locked out of work are receiving more public support compared to the Alberta government amidst a contract dispute causing a shutdown of classes for the second consecutive week. The online poll, which garnered responses from over 800 Albertans last Wednesday through Friday, revealed that 58% of the public sympathizes with the teachers, while 21% back the provincial government’s stance, and 18% have remained neutral.
Shachi Kurl, the president of the Angus Reid Institute, emphasized the importance of understanding public sentiment as negotiations between the parties resume. She highlighted that public opinion could influence the bargaining process, potentially leading to a quicker resolution if one side feels the pressure to settle.
The ongoing dispute has affected approximately 51,000 public, Catholic, and francophone school teachers in Alberta, who initiated a strike on October 6 after rejecting the latest contract offer from employers. Key issues in the negotiation include teaching and learning conditions, class sizes, support for students with special needs, and salary concerns raised by the Alberta Teachers’ Association.
The Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA), representing school boards and the government, enforced the lockout of teachers last Thursday, resulting in the cancellation of classes for an estimated 750,000 kindergarten to Grade 12 students across the province.
The survey, conducted online by Angus Reid, involved 807 participants from the organization’s forum. Notably, the poll revealed that NDP voters were more likely to support the teachers in the contract dispute, with 40% of United Conservative Party voters backing the government, while 28% supported the teachers, and 28% remained neutral.
Furthermore, the survey highlighted concerns regarding class sizes and education management by the government, with a large percentage of respondents feeling that public schools are overcrowded and teachers are not adequately compensated. The results also indicated dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of education in the province, with the majority believing that the quality of education has declined compared to previous years.
Lori Williams, an associate professor of policy studies at Mount Royal University in Calgary, emphasized that the survey results could impact the bargaining strategies of both parties. Broad dissatisfaction with class sizes and government management may provide teachers with leverage during negotiations.
Amrit Rai Nannan, a middle school teacher and president of Rocky View teachers local 35, expressed agreement with the poll results, noting the widespread support for teachers in her community. Despite the challenges posed by the strike, teachers like Rai Nannan remain hopeful for meaningful change in the education system.
As the contract dispute continues, public opinion and support are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the outcome, potentially influencing the government’s approach as the situation unfolds.