Return to Classes: What ECSD Families Need to Know

Last Updated: November 12, 2025 

Classes Resume Wednesday, October 29

Following the Government of Alberta’s legislation ending the teacher strike/lockout, teachers have returned to work, and classes have resumed across Edmonton Catholic Schools.

We welcome back all staff and students to our classrooms and school communities.

What Families and Staff Need to Know

• Teachers, principals, and assistant principals who are ATA members have returned to work.
• Non-ATA staff continued supporting schools throughout the labour disruption.
• Student transportation services, including yellow bus routes and ETS School Specials, are operating as usual.
• School-based Professional Development days scheduled between October 29 and January 27 are postponed.
• Teachers are focused on teaching and learning in classrooms. Activities such as athletics, performances, field trips, extracurriculars, school council meetings, and other events may be delayed, rescheduled, or cancelled.
• It may take time for schools to return to regular routines. Families will hear directly from their child’s school about any changes.

Edmonton Catholic Schools was not involved in bargaining or government decisions. Negotiations and legislation occurred at the provincial level. We remain committed to supporting students, families, and staff as classes resume.

Diploma Exams and Provincial Achievement Tests

To help students and teachers refocus on learning following the instructional time lost during the teacher strike/lockout, January 2026 Diploma Examinations and the January Grade 9 Provincial Achievement Tests (PATs) are cancelled.

Grade 12 students will receive their school-awarded mark as their final course mark. A note will be added to student transcripts confirming that no diploma exam was written, ensuring there is no impact on students’ ability to graduate or transition into post-secondary programs.

Additionally, the November 2025 diploma exams are optional for all students. Exams will still be held on scheduled dates; however, students are automatically exempt and may choose whether to participate in the exams. Schools must accommodate students who request to write.

Government of Alberta Messages to Families

Premier Danielle Smith has shared a letter with Alberta families about Bill 2: Back to School Act. The letter explains the government’s position and its relevance to current school operations.

• Premier Smith Letter to Parents/Guardians

Alberta Education and Childcare Minister, Demetrios Nicolaides, is also sharing a letter with families about the return to learning on Wednesday, October 29.

• Minister Nicolaides Letter to Parents (English)
• Minister Nicolaides Lettre Aux Parents (French)