Teachers, Community Unite For Wellness Walk In Vermilion

On Tuesday, October 21, teachers from Park Plains East Local #31, currently facing a lockout, gathered with community members for a spirited Wellness Walk in Vermilion. Participants walked a two-block stretch along Main Street, spanning 50th Avenue between 49th and 51st Streets. The event was marked by solidarity, energy, and a shared commitment to public education.

The Wellness Walks were inspired by the large rally held in Edmonton on October 5, along with similar events across Alberta. Brian Skinner, President of ATA Local #31, recognized the need for action in smaller communities as well, not just in major cities. This led to the creation of the Wellness Walks. Jesse Atkinson coordinated the logistics by adding the events to a shared calendar. The first walk took place in Wainwright on October 16, with Vermilion hosting the second.

The turnout exceeded expectations, with more than 150 people in attendance, including teachers, parents, and students. Many wore red to symbolize unity and advocacy for public education. Beyond being a peaceful demonstration, the walk offered a much-needed opportunity for locked-out educators to reconnect with one another and with their community supporters. A local grade 12 student said, “This sucks, it would suck anytime, but at the beginning of senior year, it’s really terrible.” There was a lot of gratitude from educators to parents and students, and supporters for joining in on the walk.

Alberta’s public education system remains the lowest funded in Canada. With almost 90 per cent of Alberta students enrolled in public schools, teachers emphasize that their goal is not to strike but to return to their classrooms under improved conditions. They are advocating for better funding to accommodate growth and increasing classroom complexity, smaller class sizes, and more support for students and teachers alike.

Educators stress the importance of consistency and fairness for both staff and students. In an era that recognizes every child learns differently, it is essential to build systems that reflect and support that diversity.

The Vermilion Wellness Walk was peaceful, well-organized, and filled with purpose. It served as both a public call for change and a moment of connection and resilience in challenging times.