Jasper students walked out of school in solidarity with their teachers today (Thursday, October 2).

Just after 2 p.m., approximately 100 elementary, junior high and high school students from three different schools joined dozens of parents and other community members to demonstrate their support of teachers whose current contract negotiation with the Alberta government is at a stalemate. 

“Teachers are going on strike to get better pay and smaller class sizes, and we are here to support them,” said Grade 8 student Onitha Perern. 

The Alberta’s Teachers Association has said its 51,000 members will strike on October 6 if the Government of Alberta does not offer them a fair deal. The union has said teachers’ pay has fallen far behind inflation, class sizes are untenably high and classroom complexities make it difficult to teach. Last weekend, 89.5 percent of union members rejected the government’s offer of a 12 percent wage increase over four years.

“The proposed agreement failed to meet the needs of teachers, failed to improve student classroom conditions in a concrete and meaningful way, and failed to show teachers the respect they deserve,” ATA president Jason Schilling said in a statement.

Jasper parent Ginny Copeland helped organize Thursday’s student walk out and rallly. The mother of two encouraged those gathered to write their MLA and the Premier in support of teachers.

“Share with them how much our teachers and our students deserve better,” Copeland said.

 On Tuesday, the Alberta goverment said should teachers go on strike, eligible parents or guardians would receive $150 per week per student for the duration of a labour action by the ATA. The money will come from unused educational grants, according to the province.

Copeland said that offer is nothing more than a bribe.

“Let’s tell our government that we will not be bribed, and we will not be silenced,” she said.

Copeland said her message to West Yellowhead MLA Martin Long and the Alberta government is simple.

“Do better,” she said. “We’re sick of you ignoring the public.”

To teachers, Copeland said stay stong.

“Keep your head held up high, aim for the sky,” she said.

Bob Covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com