Important Update Regarding CUPE Local 3484 Labour Action - March 3

RE: CUPE Bargaining Information Update - March 3 

Dear Parents and Guardians, 

We are reaching out to provide two infographics about the Black Gold School Division’s financial reserves, and the impact of CUPE Local 3484’s current bargaining proposals. BGSD has received suggestions that financial reserves be used to help resolve the ongoing labour action. 

The first infographic focuses on how BGSD’s reserves operate, and the feasibility of using them for salary increases. The second infographic provides information on each party’s bargaining proposal and the consequences they will have on BGSD’s budget. 

Operating reserves are often earmarked and limited, and it is not realistic to use them for ongoing expenditures. Using operating reserves also reduces available reserves for the following school year, and limits BGSD’s ability to respond to unforeseen events. 

BGSD’s budget forecasts operating reserves at $5.8 million, or 3.1% of our total budget, as of August 31, 2025. This is well below the limit of 6% set by Alberta Education. We are also planning to use operating reserves to open a new high school in the City of Beaumont, should it be approved. In addition, we are replacing technology in schools at a cost of $1.5 million within the next few years. These costs will further reduce our operating reserves. 

BGSD is eager to return to the bargaining table on March 7th. We hope to bring our valued support staff back into our schools as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

Michael Borgfjord, Superintendent 
Black Gold School Division