The Saskatchewan Teachers Federation and the Government-Trustee bargaining committee are going back to the bargaining table after meeting Tuesday with the Education Minister and the Saskatchewan School Boards Association.

STF president Patrick Maze says the groups were able to find some common ground and a commitment to return to talks in coming weeks.

While not offering up details, Maze does say that he believes everyone wants a solution that is in the best interest of students across Saskatchewan.

“We worked from that, kind of, common goal and look forward to a subsequent meeting.”

In terms of the 90% in favour on the sanction vote by teachers, the STF President feels that crystallizes the fact that teachers want to find supports for their students in their classrooms and that their students are set up for success.

He says there is consensus that there is work to be done in the classroom but it is a matter of consensus over what that fix looks like and how it is acceptable to all different parties at the table.

Education minister Gord Wyant also believes they have made positive strides after the meeting. However, he points out job action is up to the teachers based on the progress made at the bargaining table.

“We’re respectful of the collective bargaining process for the teachers to withdraw their services if that’s what they think they need to do to press their issue.”

However, he did express confidence in being able to move issues forward in a positive way that’s to the benefit of teachers, the benefit of the government and most importantly, the children in the classroom. (with files from CKRM)