Important Update Regarding CUPE Local 3484 Labour Action - February 5
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We are reaching out to provide more detailed information regarding possible job action by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 3484.
On January 30th, CUPE Local 3484 applied to the Alberta Labour Relations Board for a supervised strike vote, scheduled for February 9th and 10th. If the vote passes, the union is legally required to give Black Gold School Division (BGSD) 72 hours’ notice before withdrawing labour services.
Should there be a strike, we do not know whether the union will engage in a full strike, a rotating strike, or another type of job action. However, we remain in regular contact with CUPE Local 3484, and its representatives will inform us on the specifics of their job action if and when a strike notice is issued.
We respect the right of our support staff to engage in job action, and BGSD remains committed to achieving a fair and fiscally responsible agreement. We also recognize that a labour disruption may impact students, and we are actively working towards a resolution that minimizes disruptions to learning.
Student Impact
In the event of a strike, schools will remain open. Rest assured that BGSD is actively developing contingency plans to ensure that our schools remain safe, welcoming, and conducive to learning. While some adjustments to programming may be necessary, particularly for students requiring additional support, schools will communicate directly with affected families.
- Transportation services will not be affected by a potential strike. Our bussing providers are not part of the labour action. However, there may be minor delays in pick-up and drop-off times.
- Before- and after-school care programs will also continue normally. These programs are independently operated.
- Schools will make every effort to continue meal and snack programs. However, availability may vary depending on staffing levels. You will be notified if your child is impacted.
- BGSD will strive to maintain as many activities and events as possible. However, some extracurricular activities, school events, and field trips may be postponed or canceled due to limited staffing. Schools will provide direct updates to families regarding any changes.
Background
BGSD and CUPE Local 3484 ratified their last collective agreement in June 2024, which covers the period from September 1, 2021, to August 31, 2024. Negotiations for a new agreement began earlier this school year. After initial discussions, the union identified areas of disagreement between itself and the Division.
BGSD recently tabled a 10% increase in compensation over the next four years (3% in the first year, 3% in the second year, 2% in the third year, and 2% in the fourth year). BGSD made progress and continued to resolve some of the union’s outstanding issues, but could not reach an agreement on the monetary items.
BGSD remains fully committed to ongoing negotiations with CUPE Local 3484 and continues to work towards a resolution that is fair to all parties, while also safeguarding the best interests of our students. To facilitate continued discussions, we have scheduled an additional mediation session for February 25th.
BGSD’s Commitment to Our Support Staff and Students
We want to emphasize our deep appreciation for the invaluable contributions of our Educational Assistants, Library Technicians, School Office Staff, and all other support personnel. These dedicated professionals play a critical role in fostering a positive learning environment for our students.
BGSD is committed to ensuring a fair resolution that supports both staff and students and allows us to continue working together to provide the best educational experience possible.
A strike can be disruptive, and we are committed to keeping parents informed. For up-to-date information, please visit www.blackgold.ca and check the News section.
Thank you for your patience, understanding, and continued support as we navigate this process.
Sincerely,
Michael Borgfjord, Superintendent
Black Gold School Division