Council to Vote on Proposal Package in April

By: Courtney Forseth, STF Communications

Following extensive consultation with teachers across the province, proposals for the next round of bargaining are now in the final stages of development. The proposals are being updated based on feedback from the most recent online meetings.

The proposals reflect what the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation has heard from teachers through a thorough consultation process. Drawing on thousands of data points gathered through virtual and in-person meetings, surveys and other tools, STF has developed a proposal package that captures members’ interests and priorities for the upcoming round of bargaining.

STF President Samantha Becotte says the level of participation demonstrates teachers’ dedication.

“We regularly ask members to be engaged and ready to act. Throughout the preparations for negotiations, teachers rose to the occasion, and they did so while balancing the full demands of their own lives – work, family, and the many non bargaining commitments that come with being active, informed members. Teachers understand the importance of having their voices heard and the strength it gives our organization.”

What Happens Next

The proposals will be presented to the STF Executive and, if approved, will be brought forward as a resolution at the Annual Meeting of Council in late April. Once approved by Council, they become the official proposals for this round of bargaining. When bargaining begins, the Teachers’ Bargaining Committee will present the proposals to the Government-Trustee Bargaining Committee. Once presented at the table, the proposals can then be shared with all STF members.

While bargaining is scheduled to begin in May, Associate Executive Director of Labour Relations Pat Maze notes the pace may differ from the last round.
“The last round moved very quickly, and significant negotiations had taken place by fall. As every round is different, we’ll have a better sense of what to expect after the initial meetings when the schedule is set.”

Becotte agrees that every round of bargaining is different.

“The reality is that we don’t know exactly how things will unfold. We enter every round of negotiations in good faith, focused on securing a negotiated agreement at the table. But we are only one side of the equation. Considering the current environment and recent comments from both Minister [of Education Everett] Hindley and Premier [of Saskatchewan Scott] Moe, we are cautiously optimistic this round will be more collaborative than the previous one.

“Our strength is in our collective. While we hope for a smoother process, teachers are prepared for anything that may come.”

Becotte also encourages members to watch the upcoming provincial budget closely.

“It’s encouraging to hear the Premier talk about education being a top priority. The budget is government’s opportunity to act on its commitments by improving per-student funding and providing every student the opportunity to succeed.”

The STF will be present in the Legislative Assembly when the budget is tabled and will provide analysis to members.

What Members Need to Do

• Read and be familiar with the proposal package once it is shared with members after Annual Meeting of Council.
• Stay informed by reading regular Bargaining Updates for STF members.
• Be ready to act. STF may ask members to attend meetings, complete surveys or participate in collective actions.
• Share information with colleagues to support a strong collective.
• Keep sharing your experiences and the realities of classrooms. The power of collective bargaining is in every member’s words and actions.

From Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation Bulletin – Spring 2026