Calgary teachers' rally decries funding cuts

Hundreds of people gathered at a rally in Calgary Saturday to support Alberta public education and its teachers.

As school districts throughout the province grapple with increasing cuts and a looming budget shortfall, about 1,000 Alberta teachers are expected to lose their jobs.

Teachers and concerned Calgarians gathered at the Eau Claire market to voice their disapproval. The crowd chanted and hoisted signs, including one that read: "Where's all the oil money go?"

Mark Breadner, a teacher and father in the public school system, spoke to those gathered at the rally.

"We deserve better and we want better," he said as the crowd applauded. "I came to this province 12 years ago, because I thought it was an opportunity for myself and my family."

Recent education cuts mean Breadner's rural school division will lose 10 per cent of its teachers over the next two years, forcing schools to consolidate up to three grades in one classroom.

In Alberta cities, class sizes are set to increase, with up to 40 kids being taught in one classroom.

"The most recent provincial budget is going in exactly the wrong direction," said Frank Bruseker, a past president of the Alberta Teachers' Association and a high school teacher.

Jenny Regal, rally organizer and president of the Calgary Public Teachers' Association, said larger class sizes means less individual time for kids. 

"We're facing decreased support for vulnerable kids — kids with special needs, kids that are learning English as a second language. It's a horrible, horrible situation and I believe the government can fix it if they have the will," she said.

"[It] makes me wonder about whether the government values public education as an institution, makes me question the critical thinking skills of the members of our legislature."