Teachers strike rally signs at Hansen Lincoln Field on Oct. 19, 2025. Photo by Erika Rolling

By Erika Rolling

Teachers Strike

Hundreds rally in support of teachers strike

Oct 19, 2025 | 2:37 PM

A sea of red filled the stands at Hansen Lincoln Field on Sunday (Oct. 19) with educators, Alberta Teachers’ Association union members, students, and community members alike supporting of the historic teachers strike in Alberta.

Photo by Erika Rolling.

Attendees heard speeches by local teachers, parents, community members, as well as ATA President Jason Schilling headlining the rally to speak on the state of public education in the province.

Photo by Erika Rolling.

Schilling says “real investment” is needed for teachers to return to the classrooms after the provincial government asked the union to suspend the strike last week.

“They’ve (government) put too many barriers around what could be talked at the table and through that process, that we had to turn it (proposed deal) down, because teachers are looking for confident ways to address whats happening in classrooms.”

ATA President Jason Schilling. Photo by Erika Rolling.

He notes class sizes and the complex needs of children with learning disabilities were “off the table” to the province during bargaining.

As a result, the strike continues into it’s third week.

“We are open and willing to bargain everyday. We’ve indicated that we need to sit down and talk about all the issues that are on the table, we can’t dismiss certain ones.”

“We can’t be so chronically and systemically underfunded for so long and not think it’s going to cost us to come out of it.”

Schilling says he knows the impact the strike is having on those affected by the school system, but says teachers have taken a “bold step” in standing up for themselves and the future generation.

“Enough is enough. We have to do something to fix a system where too many kids are falling through the cracks.”

With concerns of students falling more and more behind on learning as the strike continues, Schilling notes there should be little worries to catch up.

“We are experts in curriculum delivery, we know what are the must-do’s and the nice-to-have’s.”

Photo by Erika Rolling.

To wrap up what the ATA President is wanting to see at the end of this all; is “a public education system that serves students and gives teachers the tools they need.”

“We want a really great learning enviroment for all students across this province.”

After speeches were given, hundreds of supporters walked along Highway 40, receiving support from passers-by with honking and cheers coming out of vehicle windows.