The Board of Trustees of the Calgary Board of Education has ratified a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Alberta Teachers' Association (ATA).
The agreement addresses the local collective bargaining aspects of the contract, updating the terms of the previous agreement that expired on Aug. 30, 2020. Central matters, including teacher pay, are negotiated at the provincial level by the Teachers' Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) and the ATA.
"Teachers play a vital role in shaping the educational and personal development of students," said Laura Hack, chair, of Board of Trustees. "This agreement underscores our ongoing efforts to maintain a positive relationship with teachers, which is fundamental to providing an excellent learning environment for students.
"We see this agreement as part of an ongoing conversation about how best to support and value educators for their contributions to student and system success."
The agreement covers approximately 9,000 employees, including a range of teaching roles, administrative positions such as principals, and additional staff such as learning leaders.
"This agreement is the outcome of a collaborative effort, respecting the professionalism of our educators and addressing the conditions that impact both working and learning environments in our schools," said Stephani Clements, president, Alberta Teachers' Association Local 38.
"Both parties have worked with a spirit of cooperation, ensuring that the contract not only supports our members but also takes into consideration the broader interests and challenges we face. We're optimistic that this agreement will set a positive precedent for our ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for our educators and students alike."
The agreement introduces several new elements aimed at improving the teaching environment including changes related to professional development and supporting substitute teachers in completing mandatory safety training.
After several months of negotiations, this agreement is a testament to the constructive dialogue between the Board of Trustees and the Alberta Teachers' Association, emphasizing a shared commitment to reaching a mutually beneficial agreement. The updated collective agreement will be posted on the CBE website once available.
