“May you live in interesting times.” – Chinese proverb (though its origins are debated)

The start of the 2025/26 school year has been marked by significant uncertainty. The government’s policy on book bans was introduced with great controversy, quickly drawing international criticism and forcing a retreat from the original ministerial order. Over the summer, the government also rushed through Education Act amendments related to pronouns, gender identity, sexual orientation, parental opt-ins and transgender participation in sports, leaving schools and school boards scrambling to respond. Adding to the uncertainty, in June 2025, 95 percent of teachers voted in favour of strike action should negotiations with the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) fail. By the end of August, talks between the Alberta Teachers’ Association and TEBA had collapsed, leaving many questions about the months ahead.

This unsettled labour situation has created stress and anxiety for families, students and teachers alike. The Association provided some clarity by announcing that as of October 6, 2025, teachers will be on strike. While this did not eliminate the possibility of a teacher lockout by TEBA, it did add structure to the ATA’s plans.

So, what can parents and caregivers do to reduce their own uncertainty and support their children? First, it helps to take stock of what is known and what supports are available. For parents of younger children, childcare will be a top concern. Local news outlet Town and Country (Westlock) asked parents what plans they were considering if a strike occurs. Responses included taking vacation days, relying on family, friends or other parents in their networks, and arranging additional daycare. While none of these options are ideal—most parents would prefer their children remain in school—they are practical backup plans that can be organized in advance.

Parents and caregivers can also talk openly with their children to help them process their worries. Even without concrete answers about what comes next, giving children space to share their concerns and emotions goes a long way. Answering questions honestly, while acknowledging the uncertainty, helps children feel heard and supported.

Beyond childcare, families will also worry about how a strike may affect learning. Fortunately, there are resources to keep students engaged. The Government of Alberta’s LearnAlberta website outlines curriculum goals for each grade, offering clarity on what students are expected to learn. The government has also put together a parent toolkit. Local and online libraries provide rich collections of reading materials, while museums, historical sites and guided walks can turn community exploration into meaningful learning experiences.

Staying informed is also important. Parents can check the websites of their school division, the Alberta Teachers’ Association and Alberta Education for updates, which are typically posted as soon as new information becomes available. For those who wish to advocate for better resourcing of public education, additional materials can be found at StopTheExcuses.ca.

Early planning can ease the challenges a strike may bring. As I often say: plan for the worst and hope for the best. More often than not, this approach helps us overcome the challenges we face. My hope is that it will do the same for you and your family.