Good afternoon Fort McMurray Catholic Schools family,

As we expect you are aware, CUPE Local 2559 has given us notice that they will withdraw their services (strike) beginning November 13, 2024 at 6am. Below we share a schedule with the most up to date information we have at this time.

We are reaching out today to share how we will communicate the rotation of this strike action with families. Fort McMurray Catholic Schools will endeavour to notify families of strike action in their school, and school programming changes as a result, as quickly and transparently as possible. We understand this is a time of uncertainty, and we will walk through these times together. 

Fort McMurray Roman Catholic Separate School Division will remain open during this labour disruption. We understand that the absence of these valuable staff members on strike days will be noticed and that daily operations will be a challenge.

How we will update families: 

• Regular updates will be shared on Edsby, by email and on our website. In the event of an urgent matter that requires immediate attention we will also send messages via SMS/text message. Please ensure your contact information is up to date in Edsby. 

Week of November 11 -15:

• CUPE Local 2559 has advised us of their strike schedule for the week. We are sharing the schedule in this graphic. This is also being posted in Edsby. 
   

Week of November 18 - 22: 
 

• CUPE Local 2559 advises there will be rotational strike action in multiple schools/facilities each day.
• The plan is that each school/facility will only have one strike day per week and CUPE staff will report to work on the remaining days.
• Friday November 22, 2024 will be a regular work day for support staff (this is a PLF Friday, and Out of School Care will be open).
• CUPE Local 2559 will advise of which locations will be having strike days by 6pm each evening. 
  • Fort McMurray Catholic Schools will share that information with families as quickly as possible via Edsby and email. 

The latest updates on the CUPE Local 2559 strike action will continue to be posted on our website.

While recognizing the right of our support staff to engage in legal work action by striking, we know this action will have an impact on our classrooms and schools. We remain committed to bargaining and working to find a resolution.

If you have questions specific to your child(ren), please contact your child’s school directly.

Thank you for your grace, patience and understanding. We will continue to share updates with staff and all families when information is confirmed and can be shared. 

Fort McMurray Catholic Schools