Dear Members of CUPE 8443,
In light of the ongoing job action and strikes impacting Saskatoon Public Schools, it is imperative for CUPE 8443 members to fulfill their duties as outlined in our job descriptions.
As the job action by the STF continues, it is now impacting supervision. We are asking our members to arrive at work at their scheduled time, take breaks at their scheduled time and leave work at their scheduled time. EAs may be asked to supervise while they are ‘on-shift’ over the lunch hour, as you are working you will be required to complete tasks as directed by the employer. Many of our members already engage in student noon-hour supervision during lunch breaks as part of their regular duties, this should continue as assigned. Some members voluntarily provide additional noon-hour supervision under Schedule C** in the Collective Agreement. If you were previously involved in such supervision using timecards, please continue this practice. However, CUPE Local 8443 urges members who do not currently provide this additional supervision under Schedule C to refrain from taking on this responsibility during this withdrawal of service in support of our colleagues. Additionally, please ensure you take your scheduled unpaid lunch break during your workday. If you are asked to perform a task and you are unsure whether or not it is the framework of your duties, please refer to your job description using the link above.
Principals/supervisors may assign tasks or provide opportunities for professional development through CANVAS/AFIRM modules on full strike days. A link to these professional development opportunities was distributed by Melissa Tate on January 22, 2024. Tasks such as laminating, preparing bulletin boards, and photocopying are considered acceptable. However, activities involving the creation, modification, or correction of student work are not within our scope of responsibilities. If asked to undertake a task typically performed by teachers, please refrain from assuming that responsibility.
Should you desire to show support for the teachers participating in picket lines, you may do so outside of your working hours, and our teaching colleagues have expressed appreciation for our solidarity.
Discussions have been conducted with the STF, and they understand that CUPE members are expected to report to work during this period. It is important to emphasize that as members of CUPE 8443, we stand in solidarity with the Saskatchewan Teachers Federation in their pursuit of a fair agreement for their members.
We will keep you informed of any developments or changes as they occur. Should you have any questions, please feel free to email one of our executive members. Their email addresses can be found on our website at:
Thank you,
Dene Nicholson
President – CUPE 8443
**Schedule C from the CUPE 8443 Collective Agreement:
2. Lunch Period Supervision
Employees who agree to do lunch period supervision shall be paid at 80% of the first step of the appropriate play class for all hours worked. It is understood that any time worked during lunch period supervision shall not be considered when calculating overtime.