SASKATCHEWAN TEACHERS' FEDERATION
Budget 2026 Misses Opportunity to Build on Momentum Addressing Classroom Complexity

Despite important steps forward, the Saskatchewan Teachers' Federation says Budget 2026 fails to build on recent momentum to address classroom complexity or close the gap on restoring per-student funding to 2015-16 levels.

STF President Samantha Becotte says specialized support classrooms acknowledged a real and growing challenge in Saskatchewan classrooms - but Budget 2026 will not cover the cost of inflation and enrolment growth, leaving school divisions in the position of facing difficult choices.

"We recognize that the government has taken initial steps over the last year to address classroom complexity and increasing violence in our schools," says Becotte. "But student needs continue to grow. This budget does not provide the additional funding required to sustain both specialized support classrooms and maintain access to other supports students need."

Without new investment, the STF warns that school divisions may be forced to absorb costs by diverting funds from other programs or services.

"When funding doesn't keep pace with need, the pressure doesn't disappear - it shows up elsewhere," says Becotte. "That means difficult choices for school divisions and fewer supports for students, which is a step backward from the momentum that had begun."

Addressing classroom complexity and increasing violence in schools remains a top priority for teachers across Saskatchewan. The STF is calling on government to work with teachers and school divisions to ensure future budgets fully support students, protect existing services and build on the progress already made - not step back from it.

Parents, students, teachers and others who value public education are encouraged to sign up for Tell Them Tuesday and join the movement to improve public education in Saskatchewan.