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December 2025 Newsletter

Table Of Contents
  1. President’s Message
  2. Vice President’s Newsletter
  3. Disability Management
  4. CB EA December
  5. PB EA Newsletter
  6. PB CM Newsletter
  7. Newsletter December DSCSB FS
  8. Dec. 2025 OCT
  9. Con Ed December 2025
  10. DCDSB LINC ESL CUPE Dec.
  11. DDSB Health & Safety
  12. Public Board Continuing Education H&S
  13. DCDSB Job Evaluation
  14. Public Board Job Evaluation report
  15. Retirement Report

President’s Report

We are fast approaching a well-deserved break in our school year. The entire membership has felt and seen the impact of the lack of supports and funding in the education sector. Far too often, we are working short-staffed, with employers expecting the same results as if there were a full complement of staff in place each day.

I hope each of you are taking time for yourself and your family. Our physical and mental health is imperative to our success, both personally and professionally. Please take the time you need to support your physical and mental well-being. Self-care must be a priority.

Both the DCDSB and the DDSB offer FEAP programs. If you or someone in your family requires support, information should be posted at each school location. If this information is not available, please reach out to the CUPE office and we will ensure it is provided and posted on your CUPE board.

Public Board Members:

Please visit Telus Health using your DDSB sign-in credentials, or call 24/7 for confidential support at:

  • 1-844-671-3327 (English)
  • 1-855-360-5485 (French)

Catholic Board Members:
Please visit: www.feelingbetternow.com/otip

I would also like to welcome Kristine Brown, who will be starting in the Secretary-Treasurer position, and Tyler Hunter, who will be taking on his new role as Recording Secretary in January 2026. We have a busy year ahead, and it will take all of us working collectively to support our Local and its continued growth as a union.

Your committees have been working diligently on local bargaining proposals and priorities. Please keep an eye on your emails and the Local webpage for information about upcoming classification meetings beginning in February. These meetings provide an opportunity for your committees to update you on bargaining and the priorities for the next round.

Our roles are challenging, and it is essential that we continue to support one another to achieve the outcomes we all deserve. This next round of bargaining will not be easy. Our Lead Mobilizers have been working hard, conducting site visits and establishing leads at each location to ensure strong communication and engagement across our membership.

As information becomes available, we will continue to use multiple communication channels to share updates, particularly when information is time-sensitive or high priority, so that all members remain informed and involved both locally and centrally.

Stephanie and I have reached out to Trustees, Directors, local MPPs, and the media to raise awareness about the chronic underfunding of our schools and the very real impact this has on working conditions and student success. These issues must be addressed in this upcoming round of bargaining.

I would like to close by once again thanking each and every one of you for the important work you do every day. Wishing you all a happy holiday season and a very Merry Christmas as we welcome the New Year ahead. A year where we continue to stand together, fight collectively for safe working conditions, and demand the respect we deserve as we all play a vital role in keeping our schools running and supporting student success.

In solidarity,
Carrie Boisvert
President, CUPE Local 218

Vice-President Newsletter

As we move closer to a well-deserved holiday break, I want to take a moment to acknowledge each of you. Day after day, you show up with dedication, compassion, and strength — not only for the students we support, but for your colleagues and our school communities. You give so much of yourselves, and we hope this upcoming time allows you to rest, reconnect with loved ones, and take care of you.

We know the reality you face: working short-staffed, stretched far beyond what is
reasonable, navigating the ongoing challenges of reduced funding and limited support. Yet, you continue to rise to the occasion. Please know that your effort does not go unseen, and you deserve respect, recognition, and the proper supports to do your work safely and with dignity.

As we look ahead to the New Year, preparations for bargaining are well underway. Your Unit Chairs and bargaining committees have been working tirelessly to review every priority submitted and creating proposals. In the New Year, meetings will be held for each unit so you can discuss these proposals and ensure that your voice guides the priorities at the bargaining table. Together, we will stand strong for fairness and the improvements you deserve.

We would also like to take a moment to extend our heartfelt thanks to Maureen Cope for her dedication and leadership over the past two years as Secretary-Treasurer. We are deeply grateful for her hard work and commitment to our membership, and we wish her all the very best moving forward.

Finally, as we go into a busy and emotional time of year, please remember that you are never alone. Both the DCDSB and DDSB provide Employee and Family Assistance
Programs (EFAP) for confidential support when you or a family member needs it.
Information should be posted in each school location — and if you cannot find it, please contact the CUPE office. We will ensure the appropriate resources are sent to your school to be added to your CUPE board.

DDSB Employees (Public Board):
You can access support through Telus Health using your DDSB login, or call anytime — 24/7:

  • English: 1-844-671-3327
  • French: 1-855-360-5485

DCDSB Employees (Catholic Board):
Eligible employees and their eligible dependents have access to confidential counselling and support services through our employee family assistance program provider ComPsych 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by telephone at 1-855-414-5952.
TRS: Dial 711 f

or more information, visit the ComPsych website at guidanceresources.com or download the app at GuidanceNow.
Web ID: DCDSB


Please continue to look out for one another, lift each other up, and take moments of rest whenever you can. You deserve that care — and so much more.

Wishing you peace, comfort, and joy this holiday season.
In solidarity, always. 💜

Stephanie Dezsi
Vice-President
CUPE Local 218

Disability Newsletter

This school year has brought challenges none of us should have to face alone. With ongoing staff shortages, increased workloads, and an alarming rise in workplace violence, the pressure has been heavy — and we know every one of you feels it.

Please remember: your physical and mental well-being must come first. You show up every day to support students and your communities, but you deserve that same care in return. When we neglect our own needs, it affects every part of our lives — at work and at home. Each of us is carrying different struggles, and the best thing we can do is continue to lift one another up, show compassion, and remind our coworkers that they are not alone.

We hope you are finding moments of rest, safety, and support, especially during these difficult times. Self-care is not selfish — it is necessary.

Workplace Injuries & Reporting

If you experience an injury at work — no matter how big or small — please contact the CUPE office. We are here to answer questions, guide you through the process, and advocate for you.

It is extremely important that:

✔ All required incident and medical documentation is completed
✔ Copies are sent to the CUPE office to support you through WSIB and return-to-work procedures

When the Union is notified of an Occurrence, you will receive a letter outlining the forms and the next steps. We understand this can be overwhelming, but we want to ensure you have the safest path back to work — and that can only happen if we are fully informed.

All information you share with us remains strictly confidential and is only viewed by the Disability Team.

➡If the Board calls offering modified duties following your injury — do not decline. Instead, ask them to contact the Union to arrange a meeting. Declining an offer may impact your WSIB claim approval, and we want to prevent that added stress. If you are able to return with restrictions but the board is stating they can’t accommodate you, please reach out to us right away.

Sick Leave

DCDSB– Please send your medical certificate to sara.brockie@dcdsb.ca and office@cupe218.ca . You need to provide a medical certificate after 5 days absent and get a receipt as the board will reimburse up to $45.00.

DDSB– You are required to provide a medical certificate after 5 days absent, unfortunately even if you have been off a half day within those 5 days the employer is requesting medical and adjusting pays if you do not provide it. They will not accept a doctors not and it must be on the CUPE medical Certificate. The board unfortunately doesn’t cover the cost of the form but this is something that has been proposed for bargaining. If the union is not included on correspondence
please flip it over to us so we can best support you.

LTD (Long-Term Disability) Packages

Both Boards are now emailing LTD packages.

  • DDSB Members: Once we are notified you have received it, we will send additional support information.
  • DCDSB Members: The Board’s email package includes extensive details, so we will follow up by phone rather than sending additional paperwork.

If you have questions or need help printing or submitting documents, reach out anytime.

Contact Us

We are here for you, with no hesitation:

📞 CUPE Office: 905-571-7879
📠 Fax: 905-571-4102

As we approach the holiday season, we hope you take well-earned time to rest, recharge, and surround yourself with people who bring you comfort and joy. Thank you for all that you do — you truly are the heart of our schools.

Wishing you a peaceful and restorative holiday.
In solidarity and care. 💜

Stephanie Dezsi- Disability Coordinator
John Allan- Disability Rep
Jehan Bisnauth- Disability Rep
Brandy Townson- Disability Rep

CB EA and H-S December Newsletter

Dear DCDSB Educational Assistants,

As we approach the end of the year, we hope each of you is able to enjoy a restful and well-deserved Christmas Break.

Our committee has had several changes since September, and we are pleased to introduce the updated EA Unit Committee. Maureen Cope will begin her role as Chairperson on January 1, 2026. Joining her are Michelle Wolbert as Bargaining Representative, and we are happy to welcome our newly acclaimed committee members, Jackie Gooding (Bargaining Representative) and Patricia Bosley (Steward).

Congratulations to all—they are already bringing valuable expertise and meaningful contributions to the team and our members.

Please keep an eye out for the updated EA Seniority List, expected at the end of January. Once released, take a moment to review your placement. If you notice any discrepancies, contact your chairperson or the union office as soon as possible.

Thank you to everyone who continues to update the staffing charts during supply shortages. These reports provide crucial evidence when we raise concerns about understaffing, unsafe working conditions, and burnout.

When we are short-staffed, EAs are often asked to:

  • Bundle or supervise multiple high-needs students,
  • Skip breaks,
  • Work with unfamiliar students without adequate time to review safety plans or access proper PPE.

These situations create unsafe conditions for both students and staff. Grouping students who require 1:1 support makes it impossible to follow safety plans and increases risk significantly.

Even though we step in because we care, taking on responsibilities outside of our job description signals to the employer that staffing levels are “adequate.” If we are doing the work, they see no need to add additional supports. Your reports help us push back effectively and advocate for safe learning environments.

We have seen an increase in CAS investigations this year, with some members placed on home assignment during the process. We understand how stressful this can be.
Hands-on interventions or BMS techniques must only be used when a student is at imminent risk of injury to themselves or others. These interventions must follow the student’s safety plan and your BMS training. If a student flops while walking with you, do not pull or drag them. Physical intervention must always be a last resort.

Any time a physical intervention occurs:

  • Report it to administration,
  • Complete an incident report,
  • Document the circumstances clearly.

If a student has a history of making false allegations, please email your principal with dates, times, and details—protect yourself with proper documentation.

Incident Reports

Many members have reported not being given paid time to complete incident reports. HR has mistakenly suggested these should be completed on breaks. Your break time is your own—it is for rest, not paperwork.

Principals should be providing paid time during the workday to complete:

  • Incident reports,
  • Debriefs, and
  • Parklane entries.

Coverage can be arranged during the day, or time can be provided before/after the bell in place of supervision or workstation setup. We are actively working with the superintendent to resolve situations in which members have been required to stay after hours.

Watch your email for the link to the upcoming DCDSB EA Classification Meeting. At this meeting, your committee will review the results from the local bargaining  proposal survey and discuss priorities as we approach the end of our current contract. We may be at the bargaining table as early as March 2026.

Health & Safety Reminders

Student Safety Plans

  • As per Memorandum STSE24-251, safety plan details must be reviewed before students enter the building.
  • If a safety plan is missing or you have not been given adequate time to review it, you have the right to refuse unsafe work under the OHSA.
  • Safety plans must be kept current and updated regularly with EA input.

Notification of Risk of Injury (NORI)

  • The NORI outlines risks of workplace violence based on past behaviour.
  • It must be provided to all staff who may encounter the student.

Transportation Safety Plans

  • Any student requiring a safety plan must also have a transportation safety plan.
  • Cell phones have been provided to all schools—take one on buses, taxis, or excursions for immediate assistance.

Walkie-Talkies & PPE

  • Every EA must have a working walkie-talkie.
  • Required PPE must be properly fitted and available.
  • The employer is responsible for laundering soiled PPE and ensuring clean
    replacements are on hand.

Incident Reports & Parklanes

  • If you receive first aid due to aggression, check First Aid on the incident report.
  • Parklane entries must be completed within 24–36 hours when first aid is administered or medical attention is required.
  • WSIB Exposure Forms are required for contact with bodily fluids.
  • Use terms like writer, EA, or student instead of names in your reports.
  • Your committee reviews and responds to Parklanes—reach out if you need support.

Our schools would not succeed without you—the dedicated Educational Assistants who show up every day with patience, skill, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Each of you plays a vital and irreplaceable role in the success of your schools and the students you support. The work you do shapes lives, builds independence, and ensures safer, more inclusive learning environments.

As we head into the next round of bargaining, we must stand united. The changes we are fighting for are not only justified—they are long overdue.

We are advocating for:

  • Our rights,
  • Our safety,
  • And the supports our students urgently need.

Our voice has been muzzled for far too long. Now is the time to take a stand—for our working conditions, for the dignity of our profession, and for the students whose growth, safety, and educational experience depend on meaningful change.

United, we are stronger. United, we can make the changes we rightfully deserve.

Maureen Cope- Maureen.cope@cupe218.ca- Chairperson

Michelle Wolbert -michelle.wolbert@cupe218.ca – Bargaining Rep

Jackie Gooding- Jacqueling.gooding@cupe218.ca- Bargaining Rep

Patricia Bosley- patricia.bosley@cupe218.ca- Steward

E.A./Outdoor Ed. public board - December 2025

I would like to thank each and every one of you for the dedication and hard work that
you do with our students on a daily basis.

Your committee, we would like to remind everyone of a few important guidelines:

  • Follow the Collective Agreement. Please ensure you are performing the duties of your own role only. You should not be completing the work of another bargaining unit (for example, we do not replace DECEs when they are absent).
  • Take your scheduled breaks and lunches. We are not permitted to leave early if breaks have not been taken, unless this has been approved by administration. If such an arrangement is made, it should be documented in writing.
  • Report any incidents. If you are scratched, bitten, punched, kicked, or injured in any way, administration must complete a Parklane report. They cannot refuse to do so, and you do not need to seek medical attention in order for a report to be filed.

When in doubt – FILL IT OUT!

  • Changes to start or end times. Any adjustment to your scheduled start or end time requires seven (7) days’ notice, as outlined in L16.06.
  • Respect boundaries around work communication. You are not required to respond to texts or emails outside of your working hours. Administrators should not be messaging staff late at night or early in the morning to request coverage or duties. The DDSB has a clear disconnect-from-work language that supports this.
  • If riding a bus- we ride for the students we support, please be aware of the safety plan and know how to summon immediate assistance when on the us(we
    do not use our personal phones) L24.08
  • Keep your hands off students – the board has a ‘hands off policy’ do not do it
    unless student is in IMMINENT RISK – to themself or another- use BMS techniques only

    Wait the student out -if they drop, flop, hit, flail about – wait them out!

Toileting student

We toilet/change students that are identified, on the pathway or have 2+ exceptionalities. It is tough when we are working with other students and are being called to leave them to support in kindy – the suggestion is to have it on your  schedule when you go to those rooms to toilet those children. That avoids being called to the same class every time a child needs hygiene support- you go in at set times. When working with students if we need to be called out for support – we can leave our student with the classroom teacher(providing student is in good space) 

  • NO supply EA – please notify your steward on the days the school is not getting supplies to fill in for colleagues
  • Absences – if you are off five (5) consecutive days(half days count) you need to provide a medical certificate to the employer

https://spark.ddsb.ca/en/myemployment/resources/Documents/HRDocuments/EmployeeInformation/EmployeeRecordsDocuments/2022-Ability-Management-Medical-Certificate-CUPE-Employee.pdf

December 2025 – PB EA/Outdoor Ed

Chairperson: Brandy Townson – brandy.townson@cupe218.ca

Pickering schools

Deborah Kennelly

deborah.kennelly@cupe218.ca

Ajax schools

Jehan Bisnauth

jehan.bisnauth@cupe218.ca

Whitby schools

Judy Hunting

judy.hunting@cupe218.ca

North schools

Judy Hunting

judy.hunting@cupe218.ca

Oshawa schools A-J

Scott Hunter

scott.hunter@cupe218.ca

Oshawa schools L-W

Jennifer Currie

jennifer.currie@cupe218.ca

  • Supply EAs – the expectation is that they cover all duties of the EA that they are in covering for – riding buses, outside duties, toileting, etc.
  • Personal Protective Equipment – we do not share and if it is not fitting correctly notify the admin that you need replacement or correct size
  • Documenting injuries, concerns, incidents – fill in forms, send emails for follow up regarding conversations with others, take pictures of injuries, seek medical when hurt or first aid is administered
  • Involve your steward/union – Cc your union on correspondence with admin (if you choose to) – we are here to support you any way we can
  • Leave of absences – have questions, reach out to the union – there are certain things we can take leaves for which are different then a medical leave.

Reach out anytime to your steward or myself if you have questions, concerns or need
clarification – we do have an official Cupe 218 Facebook page please join it.

Enjoy your two week break – take time for you and your loved ones.

PB CM Newsletter for December 2025

Well, we are less than a month away from the holiday season and I hope that everyone
takes the time to relax and enjoy this time of year. The local bargaining survey was sent out a while ago and the union has received your input and bargaining proposals are being finalized. I will be completely honest with you, we are in for a tough battle at both the central and local tables when we start bargaining next year. We can start bargaining as early as March 2026. This will take full member engagement to be successful in securing a new and fair collective agreement.

December 24 has been the day selected for Truth & Reconciliation Day for all permanent Custodial / Maintenance staff for this year. While the board’s calendar shows it as a working day, the union has received notification that it will be a day off. An email was sent out back in June confirming the holiday schedule.

It has come to the union’s attention that there have been issues regarding overtime  in some schools. Some members are unaware of the way the process should work. Here are a few key things to remember,

  • A copy of the Overtime Guidelines (Employer & Union Approved) should be posted in every custodial office. If you don’t have a copy, please contact the union office or a committee member and we will have one sent out to you.
  • A record should be kept by the Lead, tracking all overtime in your school and that all custodial staff share the overtime equally. This record must be accessible to all custodial staff.
  • The member with the lowest tracked overtime hours, is the first person to be
    offered overtime when it becomes available.
  • The first member to be asked to work overtime gets the first available overtime
    permit, then the second person gets the second permit and so on.
  • Coverage for overtime in most cases is on the weekends. The permits go from Friday, Saturday and Sunday and must be followed in that order.
  • There will be NO PICKING of shifts that you want to work. i.e., if you’re the lowest member with overtime hours, you can’t say, I’ll take a Sunday permit for double time. You get the first available overtime coverage starting Friday night.
  • Any questions regarding this, please contact your supervisor or the union

While the committee works on preparing proposals for bargaining, one of the hot topics is workload. I would ask a member from each school to send me a copy of your custodial section map(s) for your school. We need to determine if the employer is being fair and equitable in staffing in each building within the board. It can be sent to me at john.allan@cupe218.ca.

On the disability side of things, the employer is really starting to crack down on members who do not submit medical certificates on time. While a grace period is usually granted but because of lack of communication with the employer, they will list your absences as Unapproved and they have stopped the member from accessing their sick benefits and in some cases, the employer will deduct this money from you next pay period without communication. The employer has also requested for funds to be repaid back to the employer if an error occurs. The union disability team can’t stress enough how important it is to get your medical certificates in on time and as always, “Whatever you send to the employer, please send to the union.”

In closing, all of you have worked extremely hard since school started in September  and he committee just wants to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Regardless of what you celebrate at this time of year, please take the time to relax  and enjoy this time of year with your family and friends.


John Allan CM Chairperson & Disability Rep
Robin Fair Bargaining
Tyler Hunter Bargaining
Ian Watt Steward
Kelly Watts Steward
Jamee McPherson Steward

DCDSB FS Unit December 2025

Dear Members of the FS unit

It is hard to believe we are already approaching the Christmas break in the school year. Where has the time gone? It feels like just yesterday was the first day of school. It has been a very busy year, and time seems to be flying by with everything that has taken place so far.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for the amazing work you do every day for the Board and for the employees working in our buildings. Your dedication and commitment do not go unnoticed.

WORKLOAD COMMITTEE

This year’s workload process has been particularly challenging, especially with changes coming in late at certain locations from the Board. The committee met for the final time in November to finalize the schools requiring adjustments, and we believe we are now at the end of this process.

If you have not yet received your updated school map reflecting these adjustments, please reach out to your workload committee representative.

BARGAINING UPDATE

Your Chairperson, President, Vice President, and National Representative have met to put together our local bargaining proposals for the upcoming round of bargaining. At this time, we have more than 35 bargaining proposals ready to present to the Board.

There will be bargaining webinars held on December 10 and December 11. Please be sure to register for one of these sessions so you can learn more about what we are bargaining for at the provincial level.

CHRISTMAS MEMO

You may have already seen the memo regarding the Christmas vacation period. If  not, please take the time to review it. Members are required to work on Monday, December 22 and Tuesday, December 23.

GRIEVANCE UPDATE

Our grievance file continues to grow as management persists in mistreating members in the workplace and failing to follow the Collective Agreement.

Recent grievances include:

  • Acting Chief duties assigned on PA Days
  • Members being required to cover for a Chief who left early due to illness
  • Failure to offer overtime prior to PA Days

In addition, several long-standing grievances are moving forward to the next steps of
the grievance process.

SNOW PLOWING / CLEARING

Now that snow plowing and salting services are underway, please notify your supervisor if there are areas of your school property that are not being properly cleared. We have already encountered some issues with the early snowfalls, and reporting concerns promptly helps ensure they are addressed.

HEALTH & SAFETY

As temperatures continue to drop and winter conditions worsen, please be mindful of where you are walking and remain alert for icy patches on sidewalks and in parking lots.

If you are required to do any snow removal, remember to stretch properly  beforehand and use correct lifting techniques to prevent injury.

If you are injured at work or are off on sick leave, please remember to submit your medical documentation to both the Board and the Union office’s Disability Team so they can assist you as needed. If you are injured on the job, notify your Principal or Supervisor immediately so that a Parklane report can be completed.

Wishing you and your families a safe and restful holiday season.

I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! I hope you take time to rest during the Christmas break and you are able spend time with your family.

Sean Hebert – Chairperson
Dave Slater – Bargaining Rep
Greg Gillis – Bargaining Rep
Mike Clements – Steward

OCT Newsletter

Happy Winter Wonderland brothers and sisters. It’s cold and time is flying by without a trace of where it went. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication over the past few months. Know that you are appreciated for the pride you show in your professionalism and loyalty towards the children of the DDSB.

The big news is that Bargaining is once again breathing down our necks. This round we hope to be well prepared for the battle that is ahead. Our fight for equity, equality and respect is at the forefront.

Local Bargaining Survey: The results are in and were discussed in the last OCT Chair
report. The top priorities were:

  1. Workload and staffing levels
  2. Hours of work and overtime
  3. Health and Safety – Violence in the workplace

Central Bargaining: The OSBCU has finalized the list of items for central bargaining.

  1. Wages
  2. Staffing workload and Job Security
  3. Benefits
  4. Paid Vacation
  5. Sick Notes

The locale has put forth several initiatives that require your help, participation and coordination.

Site Leads – a person at a location that can help mobilize co-workers by relaying information and reminders to our members. Our goal is to have 1 at each DDSB location. If your location does not have a site lead and you think that you can step into this role, please contact the union office or your union representative.

Classification Meetings – Your bargaining team has put forth proposals for this next round of bargaining. Do not wait until ratification day to find out what we are fighting for. Join the next classification meeting for the Office /Clerical and Technical unit (OCT). This meeting will take place in February. Keep a lookout in your emails for details.

Oracle has over run our work lives, from confusing timekeeper responsibilities, salty P.O processes, stubborn P Card misinformation and disappointing double entries of information into 2 different systems. We will not mention the training. Non-the-less, it is here to stay. Please be patient as we work with the board office to provide more wholesome training and plugs into the gaps all are experiencing with this new application.

Did you know? (according to an A.I search engine)

The most Dangers Winter sports are:

  • Skiing
  • Snowboard
  • Ice Skating
  • Sledding
  • Ice Hockey
  • Snowmobiling
  • Snow tubing
  • Toboggining

Courtesy of Irwin Mitchell LLP

Have fun but choose your winter sport wisely.

We would like to wish each and everyone an incredibly relaxing and joyful Holiday Break. We know you deserve it!

Antony Nembhard – Ed Centre Rep / OCT Chair – Antony.nembhard@cupe218.ca

Leanne Finlay – Secondary School Rep – Leanne.finlay@cupe218.ca

Allison Petty – Elementary School Rep – allison.petty@cupe218.ca

Public Board Continuing Education December 2025 Newsletter

Welcome to the final edition of the CUPE Newsletter for 2025

As the year comes to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and well deserved holiday break. I hope you are able to take some time to rest, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments with family and friends. We all need the break, and we’ve earned it.

Holiday Greetings & Solidarity

I want to extend my sincere thanks to all our members for the work you’ve done and the strength you’ve shown. This year has presented its share of challenges and changes, and I am aware that some days were particularly tough to navigate. Your commitment to showing up for yourselves, for our students, and for our children is truly appreciated.

Our solidarity doesn’t take time off. We continue to stand together, support each other, and protect the work we do and the programs our communities rely on. That unity is what gets us through the tough moments and what will carry us into the New Year with purpose and determination.

As we move into a bargaining year, our organizing work now becomes the foundation for everything that follows. This is the time to pull together, strengthen our structure, and make sure every member understands what’s at stake. When we’re informed, engaged, and united, we bargain from a position of strength and the employer knows it. Our preparation starts now, and every step we take sets the tone for the fight ahead.

CUPE Election

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you. Your incredible support and encouragement throughout this process have been truly invaluable. I am grateful for the confidence you have shown in me throughout this process. Having the opportunity to work alongside you for so many years has meant the world to me. I will miss you more than I can express. Please remember that I am always available for support; I am just a phone call away.

Classification Meeting

We are in the process of planning a classification meeting for all Con Ed members in March. I know that this seems miles down the road but I cannot stress enough how essential it is that you make every effort to attend. This meeting is where we set the direction for our next round of negotiations. It gives members a clear understanding of the bargaining process and a chance to hear the priorities that will be brought forward.

Strong participation shows that members are engaged, paying attention and ready to stand behind the proposals we present. It also strengthens our credibility when we sit across from the employer. If we want stronger outcomes at the table, members need to show up, stay informed and help shape what we fight for.

2025 EWBT Member Newsletter

This issue provides reminders and tips to help stay informed about your coverage, so you can make the most of it.

https://cupe-ewbt.ca/newsletter/2025-q4-member-newsletter/

I want to thank the membership for allowing me to participate in the OSBCU Bargaining Conference held from November 7 to 9. I was honoured to be part of one of the most significant gatherings for education workers this year. The upcoming round of bargaining will be challenging, and should not be a surprise to anyone considering what we went through in 2022. With determination, persistence and strong solidarity across OSBCU, local executive teams, mobilizers, member organizers and Contact Action Teams, we will be prepared for the work ahead.

As this was my first time preparing Con Ed’s bargaining proposals, I want to acknowledge and thank the bargaining and executive team for their guidance and support. Their input was essential in ensuring the proposals were well-developed and accurately reflected our members’ collective priorities.

New Hire

We’re pleased to welcome Ume Farwa to our Con Ed team as our new Client Counsellor. Your role is an important one, and we’re glad to have you here supporting our students. We look forward to working with you and seeing the experience and perspective you bring to the program. If you need anything as you get settled, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Sick Time

The peak of cold and flu season has just begun, just a friendly reminder about your sick leave entitlement.

  • Permanent employees working seven (7) or more hours a day will be allocated eleven (11) sick days payable at one hundred percent (100%) of wages on the first day of each fiscal year, or the first day of Employment.
  • Permanent employees working six (6) hours a day will be allocated 9.46 sick days payable at one hundred percent of wages on the first day of each fiscal year, or the first day of employment.
  • Permanent employees working three (3) hours a day will be allocated 4.73 sick
    days payable at one hundred percent of wages on the first day of each fiscal year, or the first day of employment.

Holiday/Winter Travel

Are you one of the lucky ones who is contemplating traveling this holiday season? Ensure you understand your CUPE EWBT out-of-province/country medical coverage to stay protected. Refer to the link provided below to review the updated policies associated with your CUPE EWBT travel benefit.

www.cupe-ewbt.ca

DDSB Cancellation of Student Transportation Procedure

Section 1.5.2.2 states “All staff should make ongoing and reasonable efforts throughout the workday to safely attend work at their regularly scheduled location.” All employees should be in contact with their supervisor prior to their scheduled hours and throughout the workday while they make ongoing and reasonable efforts to safely attend work. Employees will be paid as long as the ongoing communication and efforts to safely attend their regularly scheduled location occur.

Employment Insurance

I am confident that the DDSB payroll will process the ROE’s for permanent Con Ed members in a timely manner this year. Please remember that the Union has nothing to do with the EI process. If you have problems with your claim, you will need to reach out to either DDSB payroll or Service Canada.

Issues arising at your workplace

If you are having any problems at work, the first step you need to take is to speak with your Admin. They are your direct supervisor and they are there to help and to work with you in getting the support you need. If you can’t seem to get a chance to go see them, send them an email with your issue/concern and ask for a time that you can meet to speak with them.

General Membership Meeting

Sunday, January 25, 2026. This will be an in person as well as a hybrid meeting. Watch your CUPE email for further information on how to access the meeting, and we hope to see you there.

As always, we are committed to continuing to build, develop and foster relationships with each and every one of you.

You can email us if you have any questions or concerns.
kristine.brown@cupe218.ca,
arisa.tierney@cupe218.ca,
mahalakshmi.balasundaram@cupe218.ca

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Con Ed. May the holiday season be filled with great joy, happiness, and wonderful memories.

DCDSB LINC/ESL December 2025 Newsletter (By Chair: Tracy Gill)

Christmas is around the corner and the Santa Claus Parade is in Port Perry this year, on December 6. The Christmas party is on December 13. Lots of snow outside makes it feel like Christmas already!

CONVENTIONS

The National Convention was held in Toronto this year at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre October 5-10. In two years, the next National Convention will be held in B.C. This convention allows leaders to hear from CUPE members all over Canada. Delegates debated and voted on resolutions.

The OSBCU Convention was held at the Holiday Inn at Pearson Airport November 7-10. This convention allowed CUPE delegates to vote on bargaining priorities. Bargaining is coming up next year, in 2026, and maybe as soon as March, although the current Collective Agreement ends on August 31, 2026. This means we can be in a strike position the second week of October, 2026.

BILL 33

In Ontario, Bill 33 passed on November 22, 2025. This means that the Minister of Education will be able to place auditors in Ontario school boards to manage debt. If debt is found, which is inevitable due to the lack of funding, the Minister can remove the Trustees and replace them with a supervisor to pay off the debt.

VIOLENT INCIDENTS

For the DCDSB LINC/ESL Unit, violent incidents occurred this year regarding students behaving badly. Incidents reports needed to be submitted. However, the Safe Schools link on the DCDSB website does not allow LINC/ESL to file appropriate reports  because the students are not included in Power School. Students being in Power school makes reporting easy. CUPE is addressing this issue and asking that the LINC/ESL students be included in Power School like all other students at the DCDSB. Power School is a Student Information System (SIS) designed to manage student data, streamline administrative processes, and facilitate communication between stakeholders in K-12 education. More than a simple database, Power School empowers educational institutions to leverage data for improved decision-making and personalized learning experiences.

GRIEVANCES

The LINC/ESL unit had no grievances at the time of this Newsletter. A previous grievance was resolved and closed: the Vacation Pay percentage was rectified for a member who had received an incorrect lower percentage. The OMERS enrollment issue of two members is in the process of being resolved.

IMPORTANT CONTRACTS

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

DDSB Health & Safety – December 2025

Refusing Unsafe Work

Everyone has the right to refuse work they believe is unsafe. If a concern arises, it should be reported immediately so the situation can be assessed and addressed, ensuring the safety and well-being of all. If you believe what you are doing is unsafe please reach out to myself or Brandy right away so we can help navigate it with you.

Violent Incident Reporting

All violent incidents or threats must be reported promptly using the appropriate incident report forms. Timely reporting helps ensure proper follow-up, support for those involved, and the implementation of measures to maintain a safe school environment. Thank you so much for taking the time to fill these out the numbers thus far the last 4 months is astronomical and the rise of violence continues to increase. Please make sure you are filling out the right documentation. If you don’t know if a certain incident requires which documentation please reach out to myself or Brandy and we can help lead you in the right direction.

Mental Health & Well-Being

As we head into the break, we encourage everyone to take time to rest, recharge, and focus on their mental well-being. Stepping away to relax and care for yourself is important, and we hope the break provides a chance to return feeling refreshed and supported.

Once again thank you so much for all that you do, we appreciate each and every one of you.

SCOTT HUNTER
CUPE 218

Public Board EA Health and Safety Rep
Public Board EA Bargaining Rep
Public Board EA Steward Oshawa Schools (A-J)
Sergeant at Arms

Office: (905) 571-7879 ext. 116
Cell: (905) 243-3248

Public Board Continuing Education December 2025 Health & Safety Newsletter

Winter is approaching, bringing with it the familiar hazards of ice and snow that we often overlook each year. Our custodial team works very hard to maintain clear and safe environments during the winter. However, a few simple precautions on everyone’s part can significantly enhance safety.

  • Stick to marked walkways, especially those salted or cleared
  • Slow down and take shorter steps, ice wins every time someone rushes
  • Wear proper footwear with good traction.
  • Keep your hands free and your phone away when walking.

Holiday Season Support

By the time you read this, the holidays will be near. For many, it’s a bright and joyful season, but not everyone feels that way. If you or a family member needs support, remember that DDSB offers a 24/7 confidential Employee and Family Assistance Program. Log in using your DDSB credentials:

https://ddsb.lifeworks.com

I also came across helpful information on Seasonal Affective Disorder that’s worth sharing:

https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad/overview/

It’s something many people don’t think about until the symptoms add up.

Injured Workers & Health & Safety Conference

Thank you for allowing me to represent our unit at the 2025 Injured Workers & Health & Safety Conference held in October. It was a week full of solid training, discussions, and planning around the issues our workplaces are facing

Inclement Weather Expectations

At our October LMM, we were asked to remind members of DDSB’s expectations during bad weather.

Cancellation of Student Transportation Procedure 1.5.2.2 states:

“All staff should make ongoing and reasonable efforts throughout the workday to safely attend work at their regularly scheduled location.”

The Occupational Health & Safety Act doesn’t spell out a rule for storm days, but it does require employers to take every reasonable precaution for worker safety. In extreme weather, I expect administration to show flexibility. No job is worth risking your safety.

Reporting Slips, Trips, and Falls

If you slip, trip, or fall entering or leaving a building, report it to the Principal immediately so a Parklane can be completed. Some injuries—especially soft tissue injuries—don’t show symptoms right away.

f you later seek medical attention, make sure your principal updates the report. If it isn’t documented, it didn’t officially happen, and this can affect any potential WSIB claim. Please make sure that any medical documentation that you submit to the board, you also send to the CUPE office. office.cupe218.ca

This ensures we have what we need to support you through the process.

Health & Safety Contacts

We currently do not have a bargaining committee member at Pickering. So if you have concerns, speak up. We can’t fix what we don’t know about.

Cold Flu Season

December kicks off the peak of the cold and flu season, and we’re already seeing children and students attend while visibly ill, often because they don’t want to miss assessments or risk being withdrawn.

If you believe you’ve been exposed at work and become ill as a result, please complete the WSIB Worker’s Exposure Incident Form:

https://www.wsib.ca/sites/default/files/2024-09/3958a_202407_workersexposureincidentform_web.pdf

This form protects you if an illness develops later. You shouldn’t have to burn through your allotment of sick days due to a workplace exposure. Please remember to send a copy to the union as well.

Building Safety

A friendly reminder to stay alert. When students enter/exit the building and doors are left open, it’s easy for someone from the public to wander inside. Ideally, classroom doors would stay closed and locked, but I understand the need for airflow, but keep security in mind at all times.

Final Thoughts

Take care of yourself this holiday season—you’ve earned it. With balance and common sense, you can enjoy the break safely.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Con Ed! Here’s to making 2026 a year worth remembering.

Kristine Brown
Continuing Education Health & Safety Representative
kristine.brown@cupe218.ca
905-242-3740

 

DCDSB Job Evaluation December 2025

We are still reviewing the appeals for the last 4 jobs that the committee has evaluated. The committees who sat have been working diligently on your behalf. We are still continuing to receive pushback from the Board regarding cyclical reviews. The co-chair of the steering committee as well as our Job Evaluation National Representative have met with the board and have still not come to a consensus. This Board is appealing every job that we sit which historically never been done. We have filed a grievance with the Pay Equity Commission as we feel the Board is not in compliance with the Pay Equity Legislation.

Yours in Solidarity
Maureen Cope – Co-chair Job Evaluation Committee

Public Board Job Evaluation- December 2025 Newsletter

In early November, DDSB board staff and CUPE members of the Job Evaluation Committee took part in a full day training session. Thank you to every member who stepped up, joined the committee, and took part in the training. Your commitment matters. I trust the session gave you the practical skills and tools you’ll need as we begin evaluating jobs in the New Year. Your work will play a crucial role in keeping our evaluations fair, consistent, and grounded in the standards our local has always expected.

If you have any questions about the process, please email Lisa.coppins@ddsb.ca at the Board office and copy kristine.brown@cupe218.ca.

In solidarity,
Kristine Brown
CUPE 218 Co-Chair, Job Evaluation Committee
kristine.brown@cupe218.ca
905-242-3740

Re: Retirement

Congratulations on your retirement! I am sure you have questions on what’s the next
step.

  • The first step is to let your employer know that you are retiring and when.
  • Benefits – if you are with the CUPE benefit trust, OTIP, now and want to change over to RTIP you can usually do that without a medical if you do it right away. There are other
  • Benefit companies to consider but many members claim that RTIP is a good choice for them.
  • Life insurance – if you are under 65 and want to continue with the life insurance plan through the Trust you have to contact them immediately after your retirement date.
  • OMERS – contact them and speak to someone directly to ensure that the data you have is accurate. Some members didn’t account for the time we were on strike and they didn’t pay back their pension contributions
  • Please contact the Board and CUPE office if you have a change of address and phone number after you retire and let the Board know if you change banking information. (retro pay is deposited directly into your account when a collective agreement is reached and future settlements of lawsuits like Bill 115 where we benefit can occur)

New Retirement Procedures

Here is the new information I got from OMERS

They no longer do the Advanced Elective Form. I believe the Board fills out the paperwork i.e. banking info etc.

The Board waits until your last pay cheque before you retire then after that they send the updated information to OMERS in regards to credited service etc.

Once OMERS receives this information they send out a package by mail that takes about 20 business days. At the same time they send you an email to connect to your OMERS website to check your information is correct and to add banking information.

OMERS can do co-browse on line which means they can view the screen with you if you need help when you go to review and fill in information.

Once information is processed you get your pension the First of each month and any retro as soon as it’s ready.

So first example. My last pay is Dec 26. I retire Dec 31. So the Board can send in my information after Dec 26th. Then I won’t get Jan 1 but I should get Feb 1 along Jan 1 Retro by Feb 1.

I am thinking the Holidays may affect this since I believe they are off until Jan 6 so pension might be delayed. I am not sure when the Board would do the paperwork.

Everyone has different pension amounts so if you aren’t sure what you monthly pension payment will be you must call them personally.

Here is the contact numbers for OMERS:

Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Phone: +1 416.369.2444
Toll-free: +1 800.387.0813

 

Still thinking of what you want to do with the rest of your life and aren’t sure? Well…CUPE ON Retirees group wants you! We need a seat on the OMERS board so that you retirees have a say. If this intrigues you please reach out to sseaborn@ymail.com using your personal email. Have a voice when it comes to your pension.

Thank you!
Maureen Cope
Secretary -Treasurer
CUPE Local 218
2080 Wentworth St. Whitby, ON. L1N 8W9 (905) 571-7879