The union representing teachers in our province is planning to vote on whether or not to strike.

Nova Scotia Teachers Union President Ryan Lutes is calling the notice a “wake up call”.

They say planning is underway to vote on April 11.

“The union’s provincial executive reached this decision based on the advice of its negotiating team after nearly 10 months of negotiations with the province,”

In January, the NSTU requested the assistance of a conciliator to hammer out a deal.

“Obviously, we hope that job action won’t be necessary,” said Ryan Lutes. “Escalating levels of violence are not being taken seriously along with a teacher shortage.”

“A strong strike mandate sends a message to Premier Houston that it’s time to act on the many crises currently boiling over in our public schools.”

The NSTU represents more than 10,000 teachers and specialists and members have been without a contract since last year.