National Presidents’ Meeting Focuses on Urgent Needs in Public Education

By Allie Hearnden, STF Communications

Teacher organization presidents from across Canada met in Whitecap, Saskatchewan earlier this year to discuss the pressing issues facing public education. The outcome of their discussions was a joint statement, calling on all levels of government to act urgently to support teachers, students and school communities.

The meeting focused on two growing concerns: the ongoing challenges with teacher recruitment and retention, and the rising incidents of violence and aggression in schools. According to the group, the increasingly unsafe and demanding conditions in schools are making it more difficult to attract and keep educators, while also putting the well-being of both students and teachers at risk.

The joint statement cites new data from the Canadian Teachers’ Federation’s 2024 Parachute Survey, highlighting the seriousness of the situation:

• Nearly 80 percent of teachers report difficulty managing unpredictable and increasing workloads, and 70 percent identify poor working conditions as a significant factor.
• Ninety-five percent of educators observe that staff shortages are negatively affecting students, with the most serious impacts being unmet academic needs and reduced access to specialized supports.
• Fifty-five percent of educators report having experienced violence or aggression in the past year.

Despite these alarming numbers, only one in four educators who reported violent incidents said their concerns were addressed appropriately. The survey shows that in-school administrators are overwhelmed, safety protocols aren’t being followed, and support systems aren’t keeping pace with what’s happening in classrooms.

The group’s message is clear: it’s not too late to fix this, but the time to act is now. They’re urging provincial and territorial governments, along with the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada, to take immediate action and partner with teachers on real solutions.

Their priorities include:

• Reducing class sizes to allow for meaningful instruction and student support.
• Increasing numbers of education specialists and support staff in schools.
• Addressing class complexity and ensuring safer learning environments.
• Transparent reporting of violent incidents, including actions taken.

“Together, these priorities reflect what’s urgently needed to create conditions where students and teachers can succeed,” the statement reads. “Access to high-quality public education for all students is a cornerstone of Canadian culture and values and contributes to a strong economy and democracy.”

The presidents say that creating safe, supportive environments is essential if Canada wants to preserve a strong public education system. They also emphasize their commitment to working with governments to address the challenges head-on.

“Public education is one of the most important investments we can make,” Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation President Samantha Becotte says. “It shapes our future by giving every student the chance to succeed. We owe it to both students and teachers to get this right.”

Becotte is one of 17 education leaders from across Canada who backed the call to action.

From Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation Bulletin – Fall 2025