Statement from the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour on CBC Report Highlighting Violence in Schools

The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour is deeply alarmed by the findings reported by CBC regarding escalating violence in our province’s schools, including accounts of teachers feeling compelled to wear protective Kevlar gear in their workplaces. No worker in Nova Scotia—whether in a classroom, a hospital, a construction site, or any other workplace—should ever have to fear for their physical safety while doing their job.

The data showing tens of thousands of violent incidents in schools is not just a statistic. It represents real people being harmed, traumatized, and left without the supports they need. Teachers, educational assistants, custodians, bus drivers, and all school staff deserve safe working conditions, and students deserve safe learning environments. What we are seeing instead is a system under strain, where frontline workers are expected to absorb the consequences of chronic underfunding, understaffing, and inadequate resources.

Violence in schools is a workplace safety issue—full stop. It must be treated with the same seriousness as violence in any other sector. The Federation stands firmly with the Nova Scotia Teachers Union, CUPE education workers, and all unions representing school staff in calling for immediate action from the provincial government.

We urge the government to:
• Invest in adequate staffing levels, including specialized support staff.
• Ensure proper training and resources for violence prevention and de-escalation.
• Strengthen reporting systems and ensure transparency in incident data.
• Provide timely access to mental-health supports for both staff and students.
• Engage directly with frontline workers and their unions when developing solutions.

Workers should not have to choose between doing the job they love and protecting their own safety. The situation described in the CBC report is unacceptable, and it is the responsibility of the provincial government to act decisively.

The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour will continue to advocate for safer schools, safer workplaces, and the respect all workers deserve.