BUDGET 2026
NLTA welcomes investments, but stronger action still needed

The Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers' Association acknowledges the education related investments included in today's Provincial Budget and welcomes the response to the ongoing challenges in the K-12 public education system. At the same time, significant gaps remain - particularly in addressing teacher and specialist retention and recruitment, overall system resourcing and increasingly complex student needs.

"We see adding additional teaching and TLA positions to the system, dedicated funding for Indigenous children and some investment in mental health supports as a positive step forward, "said Dale Lambe, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers' Association. "However, teachers and administrators are trying to create an environment in which students can learn and grow, an overwhelmingly difficult task when they are faced with inadequate resources, complex class composition, daily incidents of violence, and teacher and student assistant shortages. We need a long-term commitment to a well-funded strategy that will address the current reality and improve learning conditions for students and working conditions for teachers."

The NLTA has consistently been calling on government to step up and show real leadership when it comes to improving education in this province. There needs to be meaningful investment to properly resource classrooms, reduce class sizes and address the increasing complexity within those classrooms and a genuine commitment to supporting current educators and a sustained plan to recruit and retain new educators here in Newfoundland and Labrador.

"We recognize there are fiscal pressures, but the long-term cost of continuing to underinvest in education is far greater," said President Lambe. "Education is a social determinant of health and the foundation for economic success. If we want stronger communities and a more resilient province, we must start with meaningful investment in our schools. Teachers in this province require a well resourced, supportive education system in which they can meet the diverse needs of their students. That is not an unreasonable ask."

The NLTA remains committed to working with all partners to ensure the public education system in Newfoundland and Labrador receives the attention and investment it needs. This week, it is rolling out a call to action to members and the general public to highlight the fundamental truth that government must invest in education, as supporting our teachers IS supporting our kids.