As many of you may be aware, there has been a breakdown of Negotiations between the Province of Ontario and members of CUPE who represent Provincial Education Workers including early childhood educators, educational assistants and custodians. These workers have been without a contract since August 31, 2022. As a result of this, CUPE has signaled that they will be commencing a strike on November 4, 2022.
As of this morning, OPSEU who is the Ontario Public Service Employee Union which represents approximately 180,000 members across Ontario have signaled their intention to also walk out on Friday in support of their CUPE colleagues. We anticipate this being one day of protest.
As a result of the new developments this morning, please be advised that the Rainbow District School Board Schools will be closed for in person learning on Friday November 4, 2022. This includes MSS and all RDSB Elementary Schools on Manitoulin
We do anticipate that a return to in-person learning will occur on Monday November 7, 2022, however, the situation will be actively monitored over the weekend.
At this time, I would also like to remind you that the Provincial Teachers have also been without a contract since August 31, 2022 and are anticipated to commence negotiations with the Province following the finalization of the round of negotiations with CUPE representing Education Workers (early childhood educators, educational assistants and custodians). We have yet to see how this impacts the Rainbow District School Board Schools in the future.
Miigwech,
Ogimaa Kwe Linda Debassige