Strikes hurt kids – don't disrupt student learning – says Alberta School Boards Association
Release date: January 17, 2002
Responding to news the provincial Alberta Teachers’ Association has named
February 4, 2002 as the start date for possible teacher strikes, Alberta School
Boards Association President Michele Mulder today called on teachers not to
take any action that would hurt Alberta’s students and their learning.
“Please don’t leave the students we serve behind – they are
the ones who lose when there are strikes,” said Mulder. “I urge all
parties involved to keep students in mind as they make decisions in the days
and weeks to come.”
Notwithstanding the ATA timeline released today, Mulder held out hope teachers
would not choose to hurt student learning now or in the future. “Right
up until the last moment, I will hope teachers don’t choose a path that
disrupts students’ education.”
Mulder acknowledged the ATA for its decision to not interrupt diploma exams.
“Last week, on behalf of the students we all serve, I wrote ATA President
Larry Booi asking that Alberta teachers not take job action that would disrupt
diploma exams. We are pleased the ATA has made this decision,” said Mulder.
“Diploma exams culminate years of study and preparation by students and
the teachers who have taught them. The outcomes on these exams have a huge impact
on a student’s future course.”
As of January 17, 2002, six teacher locals in school jurisdictions serving
more than 124,000 students, are in a position to strike.
For more information contact: Michele Mulder, ASBA President
at 1.780.679.5627 (cell).
The Alberta School Boards Association serves and represents all Alberta’s public, separate and francophone school boards.
