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September 2025 Newsletter

Table Of Contents
  1. President’s Message
  2. Vice President’s Newsletter
  3. Disability Newsletter
  4. Your CUPE 218 Mobilizers
  5. Sept 2025 CM PB
  6. Sept 2025 Newsletter FS CB
  7. September 2025 PB EA Newsletter
  8. Public Board EA Health and Safety
  9. DCDSB EA Newsletter Sept 2025
  10. Continuing Education Public Board
  11. Public Board Continuing Education Health and Safety
  12. DCDSB LINC ESL September 2025
  13. September 2025 OCT Newsletter
  14. Public Board Job Evaluation September 2025
  15. Catholic Board Job Evaluation Update
  16. New Information

President's Message

Welcome Back Message

As we embark on a new school year, I want to extend a warm welcome back to each of you. After a well-deserved break, I hope you’re feeling refreshed and ready for the exciting challenges and opportunities ahead.

To our 12-month members, thank you for the hard work you put in over the summer to prepare our schools. Your dedication ensures that our colleagues and students can begin the year with the best chance for success.

This year brings with it a renewed sense of purpose as we continue our mission to inspire, support, and educate the students we serve. It’s hard to believe three years have passed so quickly—we are now in the final year of our current collective agreement. That means another tough round of bargaining is on the horizon.

Last round, we stood shoulder to shoulder and proved to this government that we deserve a fair deal. While some members felt the fight was difficult compared to the outcome, the reality is that we secured more in annual wage increases than in past agreements. But make no mistake—the government is once again preparing to attack our rights. They want to take away sick days and make changes to our benefits and pensions. This is not something I am willing to stand for, and I hope you share my determination and anger. CUPE members are the backbone of our schools—we make education possible, and we must be ready to defend what we have earned.

The central bargaining survey has now closed. At the end of last school year, CUPE Local 218 also launched our local bargaining survey to hear directly from you. This is your chance to tell us what changes you want to see in your collective agreements. If you haven’t already, please take a moment to complete it here: CUPE 218 Bargaining Survey – Durham Education Workers.

Over the summer, your Executive met to review and update our Strategic Plan, which identifies four priorities for the next year:

  • Membership Education
  • Community Engagement
  • Stop the Violence
  • Local Bargaining

We are also strengthening our mobilizing team to ensure every member’s voice is heard during bargaining. We are still looking for site leads—strong advocates who are ready to have important conversations with colleagues. Thank you to those who have already stepped forward. The more we come together, the stronger our union will be in securing the respect and fairness we deserve.

Member engagement and empowerment will be at the heart of everything we do this year. Your dedication and resilience are what keep our schools running. I am constantly inspired by the skills and passion you bring to your work each day. CUPE education workers are the core of the education sector—we have proven that schools cannot function without us.

Please join our CUPE 218 Facebook page, where members can ask questions, share updates, and receive important information quickly.

We also recognize the serious concerns you’ve raised around staffing shortages. Your Executive is working on a process to track absences and shortages across units. If you are in a position to help us collect this data, please reach out. Having solid numbers will strengthen our case for meaningful change.

I am grateful for the committee members and activists who continue to step up and fight for our rights. Public awareness is growing, with sites like SafetyGrade.com highlighting the impacts of government cuts from the voices of staff, parents, and students. These cuts harm students most—and we will continue to speak out.

Once again, thank you. The power of a union comes from its members standing together. When workers are united, we can achieve our goals and build the strong, supportive community our schools and students deserve.

In solidarity,

Carrie Boisvert
President CUPE Local 218

Vice-President Newsletter

Welcome back everyone!

First and foremost, a heartfelt thank you to our custodial team, who worked tirelessly throughout the summer to ensure our schools are clean, safe, and ready for both staff and students. Your hard work, dedication, and pride in what you do have not gone unnoticed, and we are deeply grateful.

As we begin this new school year, I want to remind each of you that the work you do every single day is absolutely essential. Our schools cannot function without you. Students thrive, classrooms run smoothly, and communities are supported because of your commitment. Please remember to take care of yourselves, pace your work, and always stand strong within the protections of our collective agreement.

We are approaching one of the most significant rounds of bargaining we’ve ever faced. The challenges ahead are real, but so is our power—if we stand together. Over the coming weeks, you will hear from our member mobilizers, who are working hard to connect with every worksite and establish strong leads in each building. Having every member engaged and united is critical if we are to win meaningful gains at the bargaining table.

To make sure no one is left out, we are updating member contact information. Please take a moment to confirm we have your most up-to-date email by sending any updates to mobilize@cupe218.ca. Staying connected is one of the strongest tools we have.

We also encourage everyone to participate in Education Worker Wednesdays by wearing purple. Send us your photos—we love seeing members proudly showing their solidarity, and we’ll share them on our website and social media.

Speaking of connection, CUPE 218 now has an official Facebook page. While we know other pages exist, this one is our official space for accurate information, upcoming events, and updates you can trust. Please follow and engage—it’s another way to strengthen our collective voice.

And finally, keep an eye on your inbox. Your social committee is planning upcoming events designed to bring us together, strengthen our solidarity, and celebrate the incredible work we do. We’d love to see each and every one of you there.

Together, we are stronger. Together, we can face what’s ahead. And together, we will win.

Stephanie Dezsi- Stephanie.dezsi@cupe218.ca

Disability Newsletter

Dear Sisters and Brothers

As summer comes to a close and we begin another school year, I want to take this opportunity to remind everyone of some important procedures to help protect your rights, your health, and your income.

Workplace Injuries
If you experience a workplace injury, it is critical that you immediately report it to your supervisor and notify a member of our CUPE Disability Team. The sooner we are made aware, the sooner we can support you with the necessary forms, answer questions, and guide you through the WSIB process.

When CUPE receives a Notification of Occurrence, you will be sent a summary outlining the required documentation and next steps. Please ensure that all forms and paperwork are completed and forwarded to the CUPE office—this is the only way we can fully support you and ensure a safe and timely return to work. Rest assured, all information is confidential and accessible only to the Disability Team. Any paperwork related to workplace injuries is covered by WSIB at no cost to you.

Sick Leave and Medical Certificates

  • if you are absent for five days or more, you must submit a medical certificate, the DDSB is in the process of sending out communication that this is mandatory and that you need to be seen during the time you are off even though our Collective Agreement says that they may ask they expect it.
  • For DCDSB employees, submit all medical documentation to confidential.medical@dcdsb.ca and office@cupe218.ca. The Board covers up to $45.00 for medical certificates. Send receipts to the same emails. Reimbursement typically takes about a month; if delayed, please contact: temitope.okupe@dcdsb.ca, sara.brockie@dcdsb.ca, and carrie.boisvert@cupe218.ca.
  • For DDSB employees, submit all medical documentation to shortterm.absence@ddsb.ca and office@cupe218.ca.

Important Note on Return-to-Work Forms
If your health care provider determines that you are not able to return to work, they do not need to complete the “Limitations and Restrictions” checklist. That part of the form is required only if you are returning with restrictions.

We understand how difficult illness and injury can be, and we are here to ensure you are supported every step of the way. If you have any questions about these processes, please do not hesitate to reach out to me or the CUPE office.

Violence in schools has reached unprecedented levels, and it is more important than ever that every member knows their rights and protections.

Behaviour Safety Plans

If you are assigned to work with a student who has a Behaviour Safety Plan, you must be provided with and review the plan before beginning work with that student. This is essential for your safety and the safety of those in your care.

Notifications of Risk

All employee groups have the right to review any Notifications of Risk attached to your work location. Ensure you are shown these documents before entering your workplace.

Reporting Workplace Violence

If you have been impacted by workplace violence, contact the CUPE Disability Team immediately. We will ensure that all required paperwork is completed and that you receive the support you need.

CUPE Support

If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact the CUPE Office—we are here to help.
📞 905-571-7879
📞 Toll Free: 1-888-571-0218
📠 Fax: 905-571-4102

Thank you, as always, for the dedication you bring to your work and for making students feel safe and welcome as they return to school.

We look forward to seeing you at our first General Membership Meeting on September 28, 2025.

Stephanie Dezsi- Stephanie.dezsi@cupe218.ca -Disability Management Coordinator

John Allan- john.allan@cupe218.ca – Disability Rep

Brandy Townson- brandy.townson@cupe218.ca –Disability Rep

Jehan Bisnauth- disability@cupe218.ca –Disability Rep

Your CUPE 218 Mobilizers

Your CUPE 218 Mobilizers: Standing United for This Round of Bargaining

Greg Gillis, Custodian with the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) and Area 4 Lead Mobilizer, Jennifer Gill, Lead CUPE 218 Mobilizer from the DCDSB Educational Assistant unit, and Lori Ann Richards, OSBCU Mobilizer from the DDSB Educational Assistant unit, are sounding the alarm — this round of bargaining will be one of the toughest we’ve faced.

Many of us still carry frustration from the last round. We didn’t get everything we demanded, but the $1 per hour increase over four years was far more than the government ever intended to give us. That win didn’t happen because of luck — it happened because members stood shoulder to shoulder and refused to back down.

Now, the stakes are even higher. The Ford government is coming after our wages, benefits, sick days, and pensions. Their endgame is clear: strip away our rights and take full control of Ontario’s school boards. This isn’t a scare tactic — it’s already happening in Toronto and Ottawa, and we would be naïve to think Durham is safe from the same takeover.

This will affect every member — whether you are just starting your career, midway through, or close to retirement. And if it doesn’t impact you directly, it will hit your children, your grandchildren, and the communities you live in. When funding is cut, it’s the students and the frontline workers who pay the price.

We have one real weapon — each other. The only reason we made gains last time was because a majority of members were informed, engaged, and ready to act. This round will demand even more from us. Every petition signed, every rally attended, every conversation with a co-worker builds the power we need to win.

Greg, Jennifer, and Lori Ann are calling on every CUPE 218 member to get involved now. This fight is not “someone else’s problem” — it’s yours, mine, and ours. If we don’t stand together, we stand to lose far more than we can afford.

Solidarity is not just a word — it’s the difference between winning and watching everything we’ve fought for disappear

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Sept 2025 CM PB

Newsletter for September 2025

Welcome back from a very hot summer. I hope that everyone in the custodial maintenance unit took some much needed time off and also had time to enjoy it with your families.

Starting early next year, your committee will be meeting to talk about bargaining for our next collective agreement which is only a year away.

On September 1st, your pay should have increased as per the collective agreement by $1.00/hr. Please take the time to make sure this increase has been applied via your DDSB Employment Self-Serve.

Every year the DDSB recognizes an employee with the Educational Services Staff Award. I understand that several Custodial staff members were nominated for this award. Congratulations on your nominations.

On September 1st, the transfer list was changed over from first come first served to seniority. The union does not control the transfer list as this is the responsibility of the employer. If there is any confusion on your transfer(s), you must contact either the manager or assistant manager for answers. Please cc the union on all matters.

So I have been told that the 5:30 am early morning start for Leads will not be happening this year. It was tried on a temporary basis but due to the amount of calls and emails the employer had, they will not continue this practice.

We have a Labour Management Meeting coming up on September 16 at the board office.

John Allan Chairperson/Bargaining
Robin Fair Bargaining
Tyler Hunter Bargaining
Ian Watt Steward
Kelly Watts Steward
Jamee McPherson Steward

Sept 2025 Newsletter FS CB

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Welcome back to a new school year. It is hard to believe that we are beginning another school year, and I am not sure where the summer went. I hope everyone was able to get some well-deserved time off and are refreshed for another school year.

WORKLOAD COMMITTEE

As we start a new year there are certain schools that have increased in square footage and some that have decreased in square footage. Your workload committee met with management at the end of August to go over buildings that have gone up or down in square footage and we are meeting again on September 11/25 to finalize the schools that need extra staffing or to remove hours from schools that have dropped in square footage. With these adjustments schools should be receiving new maps for the designated schools by the end of September.

BARGAINING UPDATE

At the beginning of September we received our last dollar raise from the current contract. We are starting to prepare for the next round of bargaining and we are hoping that you had a chance to fill out the bargaining survey with your proposals. The OSBCU, (our provincial bargaining leaders) are starting to prepare to get all members involved. Greg Gillis one of our committee members will be a lead for 218. Greg is on leave with the OSBCU until at least until Christmas with a possible extension after Christmas.

CHRISTMAS MEMO

I am sure you have seen the memo that has come out about Christmas vacation. If you haven’t, please check it out as we have to work on Monday, December 22nd and Tuesday, December 23rd.

GRIEVANCE UPDATE

During the summer we sat 5 Step 3 grievances at the end of August so now we are just waiting for responses from management. We have two more grievances so hopefully we will be sitting these ones very soon.

HEALTH and SAFETY

As we get back to our regular cleaning routines please remember to stretch before you start work and remember to rotate tasks when cleaning your areas.

Reminder:
As the mornings continue to get darker and the days shorter, please take extra care when walking in the parking lots. Watch out for uneven pavement and potholes, especially when heading to the garbage bins or your vehicles. Your safety is important!

Reminder:
If you are injured at work or are off on sick leave, please provide your medical documentation to both the Board and the Union Office Disability Team so they can assist you in every way possible.

If you are injured on the job, remember to notify your Principal or Supervisor right away so they can complete a Parklane report for you.

Your health and safety are a priority—thank you for helping us ensure the proper supports are in place.

Here is you FS committee and please reach out if you have any concerns or questions:


Sean Hebert – Chairperson/Health and Safety Rep
Dave Slater – Bargaining Rep
Greg Gillis – Bargaining Rep (Leave with OSBCU)
Mike Clements – Union Steward

September 2025 PB EA Newsletter

September 2025 – PB EA Newsletter

Welcome back to a new school year!
I hope each of you had a chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy time with your family and friends over the summer. As we begin another year together, I want to take a moment to share some important reminders and resources to help you feel supported in your role.

If you are new to the DDSB, welcome! We’re so glad you’re here. As a member of CUPE 218, you are part of a strong and supportive community. I’ve included below the list of union committee members who are here to help you. A quick reminder—when you receive your “welcome email” for benefits, you are not automatically enrolled. Be sure to complete the enrollment process so you don’t miss out.

If You Have Questions or Concerns

Please reach out to me or your area steward directly before posting on social media. The Board does monitor social platforms and can access information, so it’s always best to connect with us first if you need support. Click here for more information on social media guidelines.

EA/Outdoor Ed Union Stewards for DDSB
Chairperson: Brandy Townson – pbeachair@cupe218.ca or brandy.townson@cupe218.ca

Pickering schoolsDeborah Kennellydeborah.kennelly@cupe218.ca
Ajax SchoolsJehan Bisnauthjehan.bisnauth@cupe218.ca
Whitby schoolsJudy Huntingjudy.hunting@cupe218.ca
North schoolsJudy Huntingjudy.hunting@cupe218.ca
Oshawa schools A-KScott Hunterscott.hunter@cupe218.ca
Oshawa schools L-WJennifer Curriejennifer.currie@cupe218.ca

Health and Safety Rep for EA/Outdoor Ed Unit – Scott Hunter
Bargaining Representatives: Jehan Bisnauth, Scott Hunter, Brandy Townson

Your Rights and Responsibilities as an EA

As we start the year, please take time to refresh yourself on your rights and responsibilities”

  • Complete all required forms: violent incidents, Safe Schools, Parklanes (with admin), WSIB exposure. When in doubt—fill it out! If it’s not documented – it didn’t happen!
  • Debriefs: After an incident, you must be included in the debrief. Click here for the procedure.
  • Safety Plans: Review and ask questions. Always ensure you have required PPE before working with students. You must see these PRIOR to working with students
  • Hands-Off Policy: Be familiar with it (Page 13 reference).
  • Collective Agreement: Review regularly (available at cupe218.ca or DDSB Spark).
    • You are entitled to two 10-minute breaks and a 40-minute uninterrupted lunch (L16.04).
    • Your workday is 7 hours + 40 minutes.
    • Breaks cannot be skipped in order to leave early
  • Supervision: SERTs/Department Heads are colleagues, not supervisors. Issues should go to your principal. You may CC the union if you wish.
  • Disconnect From Work: you are not expected to check/respond to work emails, receive/respond to texts “after hours” 6pm-7am M-F, all day Sat./Sun. and stat. Holidays
    https://durhamschboard.service-now.com/sys_attachment.do?sys_id=67c75c80977d8510de77391e6253afec&view=true

Sick Leave Protocol

  • Notify your administrator by email: “It’s [Your Name], I am off sick today [insert date].” – no further details required.
  • If you are off 5 consecutive days, submit a completed medical certificate: Download here.
  • Send certificates to: shortterm.absence@ddsb.ca and copy office@cupe218.ca.

Toileting & Student Support

Yes, EAs are responsible for toileting and can do so independently. If you feel unsafe, you can request assistance.
⚠️ You should not be pulled from your assigned students to toilet kindergarten children—DECEs are responsible for that

Joint Message from EY/ISS:

  • For students with multiple strengths and needs (more than two, and where required), programming may include toileting and self-care support.
  • For Early Years students, toileting and self-care are considered part of developmental learning and are supported by DECEs/classroom educators.
  • EAs should not be requested to support students whose only need is toileting/self-care skill-building.
  • Dignity is key—single staff support is preferred unless otherwise outlined for lifting/safety reasons.

Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

Support is available 24/7 by phone, web, or app:
ddsb.lifeworks.com
1-844-671-3327 | TTY: 1-855-360-5485

This is a confidential, third-party service. The Board does not receive any personal information regarding use.

Quick Tips & Did You Know?

  • When in doubt, reach out! Your steward is only an email away. No question is too small.
  • You are entitled to breaks—they protect your health and well-being. Don’t give them up.
  • Fill out forms promptly. Reporting incidents keeps everyone safer and creates a record that protects you.
  • EFAP isn’t just for crisis situations—you can use it for financial advice, parenting support, stress management, and more.
  • Remember—you belong here. Whether you’re brand new or returning, you are a valued part of our team and CUPE family

✨ Wishing you all a smooth, safe, and successful start to the school year. Remember—you are not alone. Reach out if you need guidance or support.

In solidarity,
Brandy Townson
Chairperson, PB EA/Outdoor Ed Unit – CUPE 218

Public Board EA Health and Safety

Welcome Back!
I hope everyone had a chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy the summer. For those who supported students in summer programs—thank you for your continued dedication. The impact you make every day does not go unnoticed.

As we begin another school year, I’d like to review some important health and safety reminders.

Documentation of Incidents

  • It is critical to document all violent incidents, exposures, and injuries through the appropriate forms.
  • Even situations involving first aid, applying ice, or seeking medical attention must be reported to your supervisor and documented.
  • Without this documentation, the Ministry of Education does not see the true picture of daily incidents in our schools.

🔗 WSIB Exposure Form

Violent Incident Reports (VIRs):

  • Accessible through the Board website → Self-Serve → HPR link (after logging in with Board credentials).
  • You will receive confirmation once administration acknowledges the report. If this does not happen within 5 days, follow up with your admin.
  • If challenges arise, contact me (Scott) or our Chair, Brandy Townson, for support.

Parklanes:

  • To be completed immediately with administration after an injury.
  • Parklane reports go directly to the Ministry, so it’s essential to complete them promptly and seek medical care if needed.

Right to Refuse Unsafe Work

  • Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Section 43), you have the right to refuse unsafe work if you reasonably believe it endangers you or others.
  • Steps to follow:
    1. Inform your supervisor immediately.
    2. Remain in a safe location.
    3. The employer must investigate with you and a worker representative (myself).
    4. If unresolved, a government inspector may be called.
  • Your employer cannot retaliate against you for exercising this right.
  • If you refuse unsafe work, please also contact me so I can follow up.

Bus Riding Protocols

  • If you ride a bus, it must only be to support a student you already work with during the school day.
  • If that student requires an SSP in school, they must also have one for the bus—or an IEP goal that explains your support role.
  • Protocols must clearly outline:
    • How to call for immediate assistance
    • Who is expected to respond
  • In emergencies where no one responds, you are permitted to call 911. If you are being asked to ride a bus without supporting a student assigned to you, contact me or Brandy immediately.

Staying Connected

If you have health and safety concerns, please reach out:
📞 Union Office ext. 116 (for direct cell connection)
📧 Email, call, or text anytime

Wishing you all a safe and successful start to the school year. Looking forward to connecting with you.

Thank you,
Scott Hunter
CUPE 218
Public Board EA Health & Safety Rep
Public Board EA Bargaining Rep

DCDSB EA Newsletter Sept 2025

Welcome back to all DCDSB Educational Assistants!

I hope everyone had a restful summer and was able to enjoy some much-needed time for yourselves and with your families. Whether you are returning to familiar routines or adjusting to new students or schools, it’s important to prioritize both your physical and
mental health and safety. Our committee is looking forward to representing you again this year!


Anita Condron – Chairperson, Health and Safety Rep (Whitby)
anita.condron@cupe218.ca

Maureen Cope – Bargaining Rep (Pickering)
maureen.cope@cupe218.ca

Michelle Wolbert – Bargaining Rep (Oshawa)
michelle.wolbert@cupe218.ca

Caterina Divilio – Steward (Ajax)
caterina.divilio@cupe218.ca

Everyone should check their eServe account to ensure that vacation pay percentages and other pay details are accurate. If you notice any discrepancies, please email us so we can assist in getting them corrected.

By now, your principal should have provided you with access to a secure location to store personal items such as purses, wallets, computers, etc. Some schools have ordered lockers/locked cabinets for these items. Please reach out if you do not have a secure personal space.

Your 40-minute unpaid lunch break should be scheduled after you have worked a minimum of 3 hours as indicated in our collective agreement.

When you are sick, you do not need to email or call your principal or PST, you simply enter your absence into SFE and your principal will be notified. You are not responsible for arranging duty coverage with your colleagues when you are absent.

Some schools are experiencing issues with buses returning late. If you are on a bus that goes beyond your scheduled hours, your hours must be adjusted so you do not go over your assigned time. If you have already gone over, you should be compensated with
overtime as outlined in Article 19 of the collective agreement. Please reach out so we can assist you.

It is important to remember that we need to work within our job description. Going above and beyond to fill gaps or cover for staffing shortages may seem helpful in the short term, but it can give the employer the impression that there are no issues with workload
or staffing levels. Taking on tasks outside of our role can increase stress and risk burnout. We should not be compensating for systemic staffing challenges.

Health and Safety

Student Safety Plans: Safety plans must be read prior to working with the student. EAs should be involved in the development process of the safety plan and have input on any changes throughout the year. We are constantly working understaffed and are sometimes asked to bundle multiple students with safety plans. If you cannot follow the students’ safety plans then the bundling is unsafe and needs to be addressed with your principal. Students with a safety plan who ride the bus must also have a transportation safety plan and EAs who ride should take the school issued cell phone with them for assistance in case of emergency.

Notification of Risk of Injury Forms (NORI): The NORI form is available to all employee groups who may encounter a student with a history of violent behaviour. This form must be provided to all staff who may be exposed to the risk. Please make sure
you are given time to read the NORI prior to working with the student. The NORI should detail the student’s identifying information, strategies to avoid risk, emergency intervention procedures, and how to summon immediate assistance.

Walkie Talkies: Walkie talkies are provided for summoning immediate assistance and must be in good working order. Every EA should have one. Personal devices or apps should not be relied on for emergency situations.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): If PPE is required as part of a safety plan, you must have your own properly fitted equipment. PPE should never be shared, as improper fit can create additional hazards. Back-up staff should also have their own PPE. Laundering may be done at school if facilities exist, or at home by the principal if necessary.

Road Safety: A road safety checklist is in place for students who elope off property. The form, developed collaboratively by EAs, PST, teachers, and admin, outlines strategies to keep both students and staff safe.

Parking Lots and Kiss & Ride: EAs are not responsible for directing traffic, opening car doors, or buckling students in. Parking lots can be dangerous, especially with aggressive or distracted drivers.

Incident Reports: All incidents of student aggression, physical or verbal, or the threat of either, should be reported. If the incident meets the criteria for suspension or expulsion you have a responsibility to report. You should be completing incident reports
and debriefs on paid time and not on breaks or after hours.

Parklanes: If you are injured, require first aid, or need a moment for your mental health, mark first aid on your report and complete a Parklane with your principal within 24hours. Make sure the report is signed and dated by both you and your admin and you
are given a copy physically or digitally. If you are exposed to bodily fluids please request a WSIB Exposure Form from one of us.

Workplace violence has increased over the years, and we are already receiving numerous incident reports in the first week back. If your work environment or tasks feel unsafe, The Occupational Health and Safety Act gives workers the right to refuse work they believe is unsafe for themselves or others. This includes risks from workplace violence. If you feel unsafe, immediately contact your principal. If unresolved, reach out to one of us. Initiating a work refusal can feel intimidating, but we are here to help you through the process. When we stand together, we can make meaningful change. Every EA deserves to go home at the end of the day uninjured. Wishing you all a great 2025/26 school year.

 

Yours in solidarity,
Anita Condron

Continuing Education Public Board

Continuing Education – Public Board September 2025 Newsletter

Welcome back to our 2025/2026 school year. I hope everyone enjoyed a well-deserved summer break and found some time to rest and recharge. As we begin this new school year, I want to remind you of the importance of taking care of yourselves along the wayit is just as important as the work that we do each and every day.

I would also like to take a moment to recognize the valuable contributions each of you make here at Continuing Education. The work you do matters, and it makes a real difference to the students and children.

I would be remiss if I did not take a moment to acknowledge how much I will truly miss working with the three CNC staff who have been redeployed this year. I wish them nothing but the best in their new roles and will continue to check in on them throughout the year. At the same time, I am very pleased to welcome Darlene back to the Oshawa location, and look forward to working alongside her once again. It feels fitting to come full circle and end exactly where it all began almost 25 years ago.

I look forward to representing the amazing Con Ed staff again this year. As always, I am committed to continuing to build, develop and foster relationships with each and everyone of you. You can email me at kristine.brown@cupe218.ca or call me on my cell at 904-242-3740.

By the time you are writing this newsletter, school will have started and most of our 2025/2026 programs will be up and running. Please remember that the CUPE newsletters will only be available quarterly so I encourage you to check the CUPE website and your CUPE email on a regular basis for information and updates.

Please remember that the union fought very hard to get the additional PBLA time and I urge you to use this allotted time and refrain from putting extra time in before and after school. We are not required to be in the school before or after the hours of the instructional day. I know that this is easier said than done but when you are putting in extra hours to do your job, you are giving the employer more than you are earning. The extra hours that you work let the employer know that the workload is manageable. We all need to be united from the start and not enable the employer to increase our workload and not be compensated for it. I cannot stress enough the importance of taking your uninterrupted lunch time every day. You need this time for yourself. If you do not start the year off doing this, it will become a routine that will be hard to break free from. Take your lunches, you deserve them.

Payroll Schedules- for your reference, you can refer to the payroll schedules through the attachment below. Please note that there are two links, one is for permanent employees and one is for supply/contract employees.

https://spark.ddsb.ca/en/my-employment/resources/Documents/Payroll/2025-2026-Con-EdCUPE.pdf

https://spark.ddsb.ca/en/my-employment/resources/Documents/Payroll/2025-2026-Con-Ed.pdf

Sick Days- If you are on a LTO – your sick day allocation is prorated to your date of hire. Please ensure that the correct number of days is reflected on your Employee SelfServe page. It is also important to ensure that if you had any sick days remaining during
the 2024/2025 school year, they should be reported on your SL Top Up line in your Absence Details page.

When you are off sick, you are required to submit a medical certificate on the 5th day that you are absent. This medical is not required to be sent to your Admin or Supervisor. Any medical documentation is to be submitted to shortterm.absence@ddsb.ca and to
office@cupe218.ca

THE DDSB WILL OFTEN REACH OUT AND OFFER YOU A MODIFIED RETURN TO WORK PLAN. PLEASE DO NOT ANSWER THE EMPLOYER UNTIL YOU REACH OUT TO ONE OF THE DISABILITY TEAM MEMBERS TO HELP YOU NAVIGATE THROUGH THE PROCESS.

Labour Management- at this time we have not scheduled any dates for discussions.

Please remember to complete the CUPE 218 Scholarship application in September. This is a great opportunity to offset some of your child’s educational expenses. The application can be found on the CUPE website or you can see me in early September and I will provide you with the application.

https://cupe218.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/CUPE-Local-218-and-Len-Byrne-MemorialScholarships.pdf

OSBCU Summer Road Show- I was pleased to attend the OSBCU summer  consultation roadshow when it rolled into Oshawa at the end of July. Presidents, executives, bargaining teams and contact action teams came together with Having our collective voices heard is critical as we continue to build the strength we’ll need heading into the next round of bargaining. Please remember to check out the OSBCU website for important news and information. https://osbcu.ca/

NEW CUPE EWBT Website- This is your go to destination for all your benefits provided the CUPE EWBT. https://www.cupe-ewbt.ca/

New Hire -Applications for CUPE EWBT

  • Eligible education members of the CUPE EWBT are guaranteed coverage under the benefit plan if they enroll within 31 days of receiving their New Hire Event email from OTIP ( note, this is sent to your board email address) If you do not enroll within 31 days, you will be deemed a “late applicant”.
  • As a “late applicant,” you, your spouse and eligible dependent children (if applicable) will be required to complete a medical questionnaire and submit it to Canada Life for approval, Canada Life may ask for additional information and has the right to decline health coverage to you, your spouse and/or your dependent children.
  • If your coverage is approved by Canada life, your effective date for health coverage will be the date of Canada Life’s approval.
  • As a “late applicant” your dental coverage is limited to a maximum of $200 per person for the first 12 months of coverage.

Retirement- as many of you are aware, Sam Aziz has announced his retirement from Con Ed. On behalf of all of us, thanks Sam, for the many years that you have helped newcomer students gain confidence and build new opportunities through language. We wish you so much happiness in this next chapter of your life.

Save the Date
General Membership meetings will take place at the CUPE Local 218 union hall on Sunday, September 28th, Sunday, October 26th and Sunday, November 23 at 7:00 pm. I hope to see everyone in attendance.

Our next Newsletter will be published in December 2025.

I am optimistic that this will be a great year for everyone and please remember that we are stronger together.

I hope that everyone has a healthy, safe, happy and productive fall. If you have any questions or concerns, we are always here to provide assistance.

Kristine Brown- Chair – kristine.brown@cupe218.ca
Arisa Tierney- arisa.tierney@cupe218.ca
Maha Bala – mahalakshmi.balasundaram@cupe218.ca

Public Board Continuing Education Health and Safety

Public Board Continuing Education Health & Safety Newsletter – CON ED

Welcome Back friends!! It seems like only yesterday that I was wishing you all a happy summer and now our break has ended and we are headed back to our regular work routines. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for all your hard work and dedication to our program and students and to also remind you that you matter and your health and safety matter while you are at work.

As we start the year, I am sure that we will have a few school fire drills. Please remember to report to administration ASAP if you are not able to hear the alarms or if you encounter any problems during a drill.

Please remember that if you are injured at work, concerned about your mental stress or heat stress, you need to report it to your supervisor ASAP. Parklanes are to be filled out if there is ANY first aid treatment required (washing/icing/Band-Aid) or you just need a moment to collect your thoughts and step away from your classroom. Please remember to check First Aid on your report. It is your right to have time within your work day to complete the forms.

Do not be afraid to report, you don’t know how you will feel the following day. NO INJURY should be disregarded. If you require medical attention, please, please notify the union, we are not aware and can not provide support and guidance if we are not informed.

If you need to go off on short term, please forward any medical documentation to the short term absence shortterm.absence@ddsb.ca as well as the union office@cupe218.ca, this way we have the proper paperwork and information to represent you on your return to work procedures. No questions asked are too small, we are always available to provide assistance.

Please refer to the link provided below if you have been exposed to bodily fluids (spit/blood/vomit/etc)
Worker’s Exposure Incident Form • •

A friendly reminder to always be aware of your surroundings. There are times when students are exiting the building and the doors remain open, thus allowing members of the public to enter our building. Ideally it would be great if our classroom doors remained shut and locked at all times, but I understand that some like to keep the doors open for proper air circulation.

The DCE Health & Safety committee will be completing the first inspection of the school year within the next few weeks. Inspections are important as they allow you to:

  • Communicate your concerns
  • Identify existing and potential hazards
  • Be aware of steps taken for corrective actions

I would like to thank Carrie Boisvert for advocating to allow me to represent Con Ed at the Joint Health & Safety Committee meetings this year. As always, I appreciate her support and dedication to our unit.

I look forward to representing our unit at the 2024 Injured Workers & Health & Safety Conference in October this year. It is sure to be a week filled with opportunities to connect, share and plan on issues that we are facing in our workplaces.

Have a great Fall Season Con Ed!!

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

DCDSB LINC ESL September 2025

DCDSB LINC/ESL September 2025 CUPE 218 NEWSLETTER

Welcome back to a new school year after a well-deserved break.

The summer held some important meetings to prepare for the upcoming bargaining in 2026. We could be in bargaining as early as March, 2026. So, CUPE 218 is proactively preparing for this.

We instructors can also prepare:

  • List ALL your duties and responsibilities.
  • Think how our positions benefit the board.
  • Let your bargaining Committee know of your ideas, thoughts and concerns to be addressed/negotiated for the Collective Agreement.
  • Start saving in the event of a strike vote next year – bargaining is anticipated to be tough!

*******************************************************************

Make sure to regularly check your CUPE email. This is a crucial time as we move towards a bargaining year.

Download the CUPE 218 app and click for notifications so that you don’t miss any important dates, updates, information.

  1. Visit cupe218.ca on your cell phone.
  2. Add CUPE 218 to your Home Screen (iOS or Android).
  3. Enable Notifications by clicking the bell icon when prompted.

*******************************************************************

September’s GMM is on Sunday, September 28 virtually and in person.

The Google Meets link has been emailed, or you can access it on the CUPE 218 website, or check out below.

GMM
Sunday, September 28 · 7:00 – 9:00pm
Time zone: America/Toronto
Google Meet joining info
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/ugb-fnwt-uyi
Or dial: (CA) +1 587-794-8220 PIN: 636 515 527#
More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/ugb-fnwt-uyi?pin=7742054748467

Important contacts:
Carrie Boisvert, CUPE 218 President carrie.boisvert@cupe218.ca
Stephanie Dezsi, CUPE 218 Vice-president stephanie.dezsi@cupe218.ca
Maureen Cope, CUPE 218 Secretary/Treasurer maureen.cope@cupe218.ca
CUPE 218 office office@cupe218.ca
Tracy Gill, Chair tracy.gill@cupe218.ca
Katherine Sanchez, Steward katherine.sanchez@cupe218.ca

Please do not hesitate to reach out to any one of us.
We are ALL CUPE 218, and every voice is an essential moving part.

Until the next time,
Your bargaining Committee
(Tracy & Katherine)

September 2025 OCT Newsletter

September 2023 OCT Newsletter

Happy End of Summer Bothers and Sisters. We had some glorious sun and now we have to settle back in to the daily grind. Winter is coming….

It’s always a busy start up. There are endless items to complete, seemingly senseless deadlines, constant emergencies and a never-ending line of others who need something from only you. Remember; there is always tomorrow. Ask not how much you can do for the company but how much you can do and retain your sanity. We are dedicated, prideful education workers. However, we sometimes want to do more than we can bear which in turn causes anxiety, stress, malnutrition and ultimately fatigue. The interesting thing about the education system is that it is a wheel that will keep on turning; with or without you. Take care of your health and general wellbeing. Continue to be a great employee but do it within reason. If there are things that do not get done simply because there is too much to do, then, they do not get done. Can you justify being paid 1 person hour when you are working as if you were 1.5 people? Ensure that this year you arrive to and leave work happy and feeling an overall sense of being well.

Gentle Reminders

Please complete your offence declaration. It is past due. If you are required to make payments for an overpayment you received, please be sure to negotiate the terms and let your Union Representative know.

For those entitled to accrue Make-up Time, please remember that your make-up time must be completed before you can earn overtime. Make up time is recorded on a 1:1 basis unlike overtime which is 1:1.5 times for the first 4 hours and 1:2 times any time after 4 hours in any one scheduled day or shift.

Take your breaks and your lunches. It is part of a healthy work life.

Vacation should be taken in the year that it is earned unless there are “exceptional” circumstances enabling up to 5 days to be carried over into the new school year.

If you are involved in a job competition and are unsuccessful, request a debrief. This should provide you with information on how to help you succeed the next time around. Any of your CUPE representatives would be happy to assist you if you so desire.

Did you know?

  • Greek Mythology: Autumn is connected to the myth of Persephone, the goddess of the harvest.
  • Bobbing for Apples: This Halloween game was originally a British courtship ritual where people would try to grab apples with their teeth.
  • Trick-or-Treating: The tradition of dressing in costumes and performing for treats was inspired by a medieval custom to confuse demons and keep them away.
  • Pumpkin Spice flavoring does not contain any pumpkin
  • Squirrels’ brains may temporarily enlarge in the fall to help them remember where they’ve hidden their nuts for the winter, contributing to forest regrowth as forgotten nuts sprout.

Have a safe and Happy Start Up.

On behalf of your OCT team

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 Job Evaluation September 2025

Dear Members,

This past summer, Sharon Munro retired from her position after many years of dedicated service. On behalf of CUPE 218, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Sharon for her countless years of commitment to our members. Her guidance, knowledge, and advocacy have left a lasting impact, and she will be deeply missed.

I am honoured to step into the role of CUPE Co-Chair of the DDSB Job Evaluation Committee. I look forward to continuing the important work of ensuring that the job evaluation process remains fair, transparent and equitable. Our members’ work deserve to be properly recognized, and I am committed to upholding the principle alongside the committee.

In early November, DDSB board staff and CUPE members of the Job Evaluation Committee will take part in a full day training session. The focus will be on reviewing the Terms of Reference and evaluation procedures under the CUPE Gender Neutral Job Evaluation Plan. This training will ensure that both the union and the employer have the shared knowledge and understanding needed to effectively evaluate positions.

If you have any questions about the process or would like to request a job evaluation package, please email Lisa.coppins@ddsb.ca at the Board office and copy Kristine.brown@cupe218.ca so the Union is aware of the request. Once you have received the package, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Remember, the more thorough and detailed the job information package is, the better the committee will understand the job that you do.

Thank you, and I look forward to serving in this capacity.

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

Catholic Board Job Evaluation Update

Since last November, the Job Evaluation Committee has reviewed five positions. Unfortunately, the Board has appealed each decision, which sends the files back to the Steering Committee. This makes the process very time-consuming, as the same committees that completed the original review must reconvene to address the factors under appeal.

We are aiming to review more positions this school year and have requested the ability to conduct evaluations during the summer months to help move the process forward. If you have any questions about the process, or would like to request a job evaluation package, please email your supervisor and copy carrie.boisvert@cupe218.ca.

Maureen Cope
JJE Co-Chair

New Information

Information – New Changes

Edvantage Authentication Procedures

Edvantage has done an update over the summer to secure their site using authentication. I too had to redo my password essentially reset my login to I can continue to do the admin part of registration. Please see the procedures to access your EdvantagePerks below:

To reset your password at this time with the new log in process, you would need to click on the Register link on the log in page at Edvantage.ca (even if you are registered).

Enter your work email address on file for your account. If you cannot also log in to your member account follow these steps to re-register your member account.

Follow the prompts for the multi-factor authentication code and be sure to enter this same email address on file when requested in this process. If you enter a different email address the code will not be received.

Once the password has been changed following the criteria provided by the system, you may wish to write down your password to log in going forward.

After this, should you forget your password again or need to change it, you can click on the Forgot Password link on the Log In page as normal to receive the password reset email with link. You can call us directly should you have further difficulties.

Sincerely,

The EdvantagePerks Team

Retirement Procedures – OMERS Pension

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

  • he first step is to let your employer know that you are retiring and when.
  • The second is to give OMERS a call so they can set up your pension payments for a smooth transition.
  • 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
  • Give the Board 60 days’ notice if you can to ensure that they have contacted OMERS to make sure you receive your pension the first month of your retirement. Retirement is now just a form online. It is up to you when you would like to start collecting your pension.
  • 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).

Here is the new information I got from OMERS.

They no longer do the Advanced Election 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