Important Update Regarding CUPE Local 3484 Labour Action - February 26
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We are reaching out to you today to provide additional information regarding the Black Gold School Division’s plans to support in-person learning during CUPE Local 3484’s ongoing job action. BGSD values the tremendous work of support staff, and we look forward to their return to work after we reach a successful resolution through collective bargaining.
Many students and their families have experienced the direct impact of this job action. Currently, there are students who are learning at home or on a part-time basis, because they do not have the necessary support to ensure their safety and programming in schools (medical needs, personal care, and/or health). We are working to reduce barriers that restrict access for some of our students to regular school programming. The addition of a limited number of Healthcare Aides and Youth Care Workers will allow more students to have access to in-person education.
BGSD is committed to ensuring that all students have equitable access to in-person learning options. As we move into our second week of contingency planning, we are implementing:
- Adjusted teaching schedules to maximize available staff,
- personnel reassignments,
- cohorting and alternate day schedules,
- combined classes,
- use of volunteers,
- and hiring temporary staff as well as contractors to support students.
We will continue to evaluate the effectiveness of these efforts and explore further options to maximize in-person learning when we transition to the next phase.
BGSD and CUPE Local 3484 had a positive dialogue during February 25th’s scheduled bargaining meeting. Both parties are eager to return to the bargaining table at the next scheduled negotiation on March 7th. We will provide a collective bargaining update as soon as possible.
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.
Sincerely,
Michael Borgfjord, Superintendent
Black Gold School Division