News

The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation is extremely disappointed with today’s surprise announcement of education funding from the Government of Saskatchewan. 

“Even with the additional funds announced today, our public schools require significantly more funding to address years of abysmal budgets and cuts from this government,” says Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation President Samantha Becotte. “This announcement also comes without any consultation with education partners. We are ready and willing to address the issues in public education funding, but this will require trust and open dialogue. Trust is strained when announcements of this order are made without notice to the rest of the sector.”

Media is invited to join a virtual news conference with Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation President Samantha Becotte tomorrow morning for reaction to the government’s surprise announcement of additional funds for education made on June 1, 2023. 

News Conference Details
Date: Friday, June 2, 2023
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Zoom

The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation and the Saskatoon Teachers’ Association are urging all education partners to celebrate June as Pride month and ensure schools are accepting of all students. According to Statistics Canada data from 2018, almost 30 percent of those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ are youth aged 15 to 24.

“Policies and directives in schools that are not inclusive, or are even discriminatory, directly impact a significant number of students and their families. This alienates them and removes their ability to feel safe and accepted for who they are,” said STF President Samantha Becotte. “Regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation all students and school staff have the right to feel safe, respected and accepted in their learning and work environments.”

Contract negotiations for teachers’ next provincial collective agreement began in Saskatoon this week. Over the last two days, the Teachers’ Bargaining Committee presented proposals to the Government-Trustee Bargaining Committee.

Despite Premier Moe’s claims that those who are demanding better for Saskatchewan schools “have been heard,” his comments and lack of action show the Saskatchewan government is still not listening to the demands and concerns of Saskatchewan residents.