EDMONTON: Teachers in Alberta are experiencing the highest levels of work-related stress worldwide, according to a new report published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The international survey report found that 42% of teachers in Alberta reported feeling “a lot of stress” related to their job, which is more than double the global average of 19%.
Jason Schilling, President of the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA), stated that the survey results reinforce the association’s long-standing concerns regarding increased pressure in the classroom impacting teacher well-being. He warned that the future of teaching is at risk if immediate changes are not implemented.
The report identifies a major contributing factor to the high stress levels: an increase in students who speak other native languages and those requiring special education. The survey noted that 63% of teachers work in schools where more than 10% of students speak a mother tongue other than English. This demographic accounts for nearly 20% more students in Alberta schools compared to the international average.
In related news, the province’s ongoing teacher strike has entered its sixth day, impacting approximately 740,000 students. Although the teachers’ union and a government committee have met for discussions as the strike continues, no further details have been released.
