Planning for Asynchronous Learning

Planning for Asynchronous Remote Learning, if required
Posted on 11/01/2022

Planning for Asynchronous Remote Learning, if required

Dear Families:

Yesterday afternoon, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) announced that it will begin a legal strike of education support staff across Ontario on Friday, November 4, 2022. Since that announcement, the provincial government has introduced legislation to ensure students remain in the classroom.

If a successful outcome between the provincial government and other parties involved in the provincial negotiations cannot be reached this week, job action may occur. While there are many different outcomes that can happen in the next few days, we are committed to providing advance notification so you can be prepared.

After reviewing contingency planning data, it is clear that if education support staff job action occurs, which includes strike or protest, schools cannot safely remain open.

CUPE staff provide necessary and caring support for safety, health and learning in our buildings. When all of these workers are not available, HPEDSB is unable to meet the needs of students and our schools.

At HPEDSB, CUPE Local 1022 represents approximately 585 members, including:

  • communicative disorder assistants;
  • custodians and maintenance staff;
  • designated early childhood educators;
  • educational assistants;
  • IT staff;
  • library technicians;
  • secretaries and clerical staff; and
  • student supervision monitors

If a strike occurs, all schools of HPEDSB will be closed to students and remote asynchronous learning will be in effect until further notice.

Emerging from the disruptions caused by the pandemic, we are very aware of the need for stability and continuity of learning. Educators will make available assignments/tasks for students to complete remotely during the school day and will check in with students daily. The decision to switch to asynchronous remote learning is balanced with the knowledge that new legislation has been introduced and therefore we will be ready for a variety of scenarios.

Other considerations if job action occurs

  • All school permits would be paused.
  • All before and after school programs, and EarlyOn programs would be paused.
  • Families who access child care in schools at Massassaga-Rednersville Public School, Park Dale School, or Stirling Public School should contact the provider directly for more information.

We know that timely communication is important and we commit to providing additional details as soon as possible. Updates will be provided through regular communication channels (websites, social media, and communications to staff and families).

In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Communication Services at [email protected], or your child’s principal.

Sincerely,

Katherine MacIver
Director of Education