Over 100 per cent of 9,300 public school members voted 96 per cent in favour of job action.
Substitute teachers working today were eligible to vote, bringing the total vote count over 100 per cent.
In a statement, NSTU president Liette Doucet says the public school teachers have spoken loud and clear.
“We feel strongly about providing better education to Nova Scotia’s students and are willing to take action to make meaningful change for the learning and teaching environment in this province.”
Doucet says teachers want more quality time with students.
“Teachers haven’t been genuinely consulted in government decisions affecting classrooms and schools and as a result we are spending less time doing the things that matter most to students.”
Doucet says, despite today’s vote they will try to avoid a strike.
While no teacher wants a strike, we are willing to take this stand for better education. #NSTUnited #BetterEd
— NS Teachers Union (@NSTeachersUnion) October 25, 2016
Legally, no job action can be taken until December 3.
Education Minister Karen Casey says the outcome of the vote is disappointing for parents and students and for government.
She says government is listening; capping classes, hiring more teachers and investing to increase support for students struggling with math and reading.
Public school teachers rejected two tentative deals with the province earlier this month and in November 2015.
Doucet says the last strike vote was held in 2002.
A province-wide teachers strike has never been held in Nova Scotia.
