Prince George, B.C.- The BCTF has reached a tentative agreement with the Province on a new contract.

The Ministry of Education says the deal was reached with the assistance of mediator Dr. Charles Jago and that it meets the Province’s net zero mandate.

Education Minister George Abbott says the "The term of the agreement runs until June 30, 2013, sets out improved language to manage leave provisions, and is consistent with government’s net zero mandate.

In addition, the parties agreed to further discuss and seek mutually agreeable improvements on key policy issues to provide students with the best education possible.” 

Abbott says the BCTF membership will be getting further information from their union in the days ahead about the agreement and the next steps towards ratification of the deal.