September 16, 2025

**Update regarding the use of the Teacher Development Fund**

The TDF is a benefit under the collective agreement available to members to apply for, as negotiated through collective bargaining efforts. As has been mentioned in the MIMs from last spring and more recently once strike notice was given, and job action (strike) commences the entitlements of the collective agreement are no longer accessible/in place.

As such, these funds will not be accessible to members during job action that is set to commence October 6^th.

After conversations and guidance from the provincial association, and out of an abundance of caution for our members not being out of pocket for expenses, the Local will not be approving funding for professional development opportunities that are scheduled to occur during the month of October and applications previously approved will be withdrawn.

Members who have already received prior approval for professional development funding for an activity that coincides with this time frame are expected to make every reasonable effort to:

• Cancel their registration, travel, or accommodation; and
• Obtain a refund or credit for any associated costs; or
• Secure a credit that can be applied toward a future professional development opportunity.

These members are encouraged to submit their applications for alternate PD opportunities in semester one as soon as possible.

Members that have received funding for a course that takes place over a semester will be expected to not participate in the course during job action.

If you have for instance, a conference, workshop, PD activity, short-term course, self-directed course, etc. that takes place in or includes dates in October, and you choose to go ahead with that PD, you are reminded that the optics of this to the public, as well as your colleagues, could be problematic, but as well the expenses incurred will be your responsibility to pay for.

The Local recognizes that this is definitely not an ideal situation, and that some members will be disappointed in this direction. We do sympathize with and understand your frustration as we know many rely on this fund to gain additional knowledge, skills, and teachings that they can put to use in their classrooms to the benefit of students.

This is not a decision that the TDF committee and the Local take lightly, but rather one to ensure members are in the best financial position possible.

Yours in solidarity, as always

Heather J. Quinn
President

2024-25 Expense claims that were submitted through the summer will be processed as soon as possible. A link to the expense claim form is available HERE.

2025-26 Teacher Development Fund Guidelines

Please ensure that you read through the Guidelines before applying! Links to the application forms are embedded into the Guidelines.

 

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Not sure where to look for additional Professional Development Opportunities? Contact the ATA Library! They have a general list of organizations in Alberta that provide professional development opportunities for teachers.