It’s not exactly a failing grade, but school-board and teacher representatives were quick to identify shortcomings in the education portion of the provincial budget Thursday.

“They’ve put schools in the same position ‘ cutting staff or cutting programs,” said Alberta Teachers’ Association President Carol Henderson, referring to a one per cent hike to the basic instruction grant for this year and subsequent two per cent hikes in 2013 and 2014. “It’s a bit of a shell game. I don’t think it will bring stability to Alberta students.”

Projections on possible instructor layoffs or hires will likely wait until a contract framework is hammered out between the province and ATA.

“I am fairly optimistic we will be able to negotiate a long-term deal based on the dollars within this budget,” said Education Minister Thomas Lukaszuk.

School-board operating budgets were also increased in the budget by 3.4 per cent, but elected Calgary trustees were still awaiting word of whether the funds would improve overall conditions in city schools.

“We are cautiously optimistic,” offered Mary Martin, chair of the Calgary Catholic School District trustee board.

Calgary Board of Education trustees, meanwhile, are awaiting an analysis report that could be ready as early as Feb. 21.