Thursday, October 3, 2019
Parent Update: CUPE Strike Action – School Closures
Further to our message yesterday, and after extensive consideration, we are writing to inform parents that if a provincial agreement is not reached over the weekend, and CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees) staff begin their announced full withdrawal of service, schools will be closed to students on Monday, October 7, 2019.
We share your concern and disappointment with this possibility, and wanted to provide an update on our plans as soon as possible to allow parents to make alternative arrangements if needed.
Student safety is always our first priority. This decision has been made because we do not believe we can provide safe and secure learning environments for all students in the event of a full CUPE strike.
Our considerations include:
- supervision of students;
- medical supports and care for all students;
- safe operation of water and sanitation systems, including legislated water flushing;
- conditions of school buildings and classrooms, and
- overall safety and security.
We are pleased that negotiations have been reported to be continuing on Friday. We remain hopeful that a provincial agreement can be reached this weekend to avert disruption to our students and families.
We will continue to monitor developments closely and will provide confirmation to parents about school status for Monday as soon as we are able. This will likely be on Sunday evening, through:
- School Messenger
- Local news media
- Our website and social media platforms: kprschools.ca, @kprschools on Twitter, and Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board on Facebook.
Sincerely,
Diane Lloyd Jennifer Leclerc
Chairperson of the Board Director of Education
