Teachers Set Priorities for Upcoming Provincial Bargaining

By Lynn Redl, STF Communications

At the STF Annual Meeting of Council held in Saskatoon in April, elected councillors from across Saskatchewan voted unanimously to approve the Proposals for Teachers’ Consideration. These proposals now become what’s commonly referred to as the teachers’ asking package.

The proposals reflect what teachers say they need most right now: stability in the system, fair compensation, safe and supportive working and learning conditions, and a continued commitment to public education. Developed through extensive consultation with members, the asking package sets out clear priorities ahead of negotiations with the provincial government.

“This asking package is the result of teachers coming together and speaking with one strong, collective voice,” says STF President Samantha Becotte. “It reflects what teachers across the province are experiencing in their classrooms and schools, and what they believe is needed to build a stable, sustainable education system.”

Built by Teachers, Through Consultation

The asking package is grounded in one of the most comprehensive consultation processes in STF history. Beginning in August 2025, the Federation engaged teachers from across the province through surveys, discussions and town hall meetings.

More than 6,600 teachers participated in the pre-bargaining survey – the highest response rate the Federation has ever seen. These conversations continued throughout the year, including four open town hall meetings that allowed members to share their views directly.

“This is the power of the collective at work,” says Associate Executive Director, Labour Relations Pat Maze. “When thousands of teachers take the time to share their experiences and priorities, we’re able to bring forward proposals that are thoughtful, realistic and firmly rooted in the daily reality of classrooms.”

The result is an asking package that reflects a shared understanding of the challenges facing public education and a clear sense of what teachers believe must change for the system to thrive.

A Moment to Reset

The previous Provincial Collective Bargaining Agreement was settled through binding arbitration, following a period of significant strain and uncertainty.

With a new round of negotiations beginning, both parties now have an opportunity to return to the provincial table and rebuild a more constructive bargaining relationship.

“Good faith negotiations are essential to restoring trust and stability, and to ensuring students, families and communities aren’t caught in the middle,” says Becotte. “We can, and will, bargain in good faith while being firm on what teachers and students need.”

Becotte reminds teachers that every round of bargaining is different and that preparation is key.

“We don’t know what to expect, but we know what is at stake. Our goal is always to reach a negotiated agreement that addresses teachers’ realities. That means showing up deliberate, informed and prepared for whatever comes our way.”

The Proposals

The STF is committed to bargaining in good faith; therefore, proposals remain confidential until they are presented to the Government-Trustee Bargaining Committee. Once proposals have been presented at the table, they will be shared with members.

At the heart of the asking package is a focus on recruitment and retention. Saskatchewan schools are facing growing pressures, including rising class complexity, shortages of substitute, contract and permanent teachers, and increasing workload demands. At the same time, other provinces are actively recruiting teachers, making competitiveness a real concern.

“This asking package reflects the common realities and experiences of teachers across the province,” says Becotte. “Collective bargaining is about more than a contract – it’s about shaping the future of public education. And that future is stronger when teachers’ voices are heard.”
The package includes proposals related to compensation, including salaries, benefits and pensions; Truth and Reconciliation; and teaching and learning conditions.

From Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation Bulletin, Summer 2026