October 24, 2025
RED FM News Desk
Alberta teachers are voicing strong opposition to the province’s plan to force them back to work.
“It’s a really hard blow,” said Edmonton teacher Ewelina Warchol, who has 17 years of experience. “It’s taking away a lot of our rights and our possibility to fight for our future.”
Thousands of teachers and supporters protested at the Alberta legislature Thursday, chanting, jeering, and even dumping protest potatoes, after Premier Danielle Smith announced her government will pass back-to-work legislation Monday if a negotiated deal is not reached.
“There’s still time to get a deal done,” Smith said, adding it’s up to the Alberta Teachers’ Association to reach an agreement.
Teachers say any deal must provide proper support. Warchol said overcrowded classrooms and insufficient resources make it increasingly difficult to meet student needs.
Parent and teacher Lynne Zwicker highlighted the impact on students, noting her child reports desks being thrown due to overcrowding. “By not investing in public education, the province is failing our future,” she said.
Alberta Teachers’ Association president Jason Schilling criticized the move, saying it disrespects the profession after weeks of teachers’ dedication.
For teachers like Shelby Olsen, large class sizes prevent them from giving students the support they need. “Forcing teachers back to work without addressing these issues is disheartening,” she said.
Calgary teacher Kathy Penner, who traveled with colleagues to Edmonton, warned that without better support, many educators may leave the province. “There’s so many kids falling through the cracks, and the attacks on human rights in this province make it hard to continue raising my family here,” she said.
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