PSD and CUPE Local 5543 Reach Tentative Deal

​March 17, 2025​ - Parkland School Division (PSD) and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 5543 have tentatively reached a new collective agreement. This moves both sides one step closer to ending the ongoing strike and welcoming valued support staff back to work.​

Ratification Process

The tentative agreement requires ratification by both CUPE Local 5543 members and the PSD Board of Trustees before it becomes official and staff can return to work. The member vote is scheduled to happen on Tuesday, March 18 and Wednesday, March 19. All members of CUPE 5543 are eligible to vote on the proposed deal.  PSD will promptly inform stakeholders of the results once they are available.​

For PSD's ratification, the Board of Trustees will convene a Special Board Meeting on Wednesday, March 19, at 10:45 a.m.​ The LiveStream of the meeting will be available at:

https://www.psd.ca/board/board-meetings

Until the ratification process is complete, staff participating in the strike will remain off duty and away from offices and schools. The current learning plans communicated to families will continue until further notice. 

What Happens Next?

If Ratified: Should both CUPE Local 5543 members and the Board of Trustees vote in favour of ratifying the tentative agreement, staff will return to work on Thursday, March 20, 2025.

If Rejected: If the agreement is not ratified, staff will remain on strike, and we will continue to work diligently with them to achieve a fair and timely resolution.​

PSD recognizes and deeply appreciates the essential role support staff play in schools and the Division Office, contributing significantly to student learning and well-being. PSD believes the tentative agreement acknowledges CUPE Local 5543's priorities and eagerly anticipates their return to work.

Updates will be shared with families as more information becomes available, and as soon as possible.

Thank you for your understanding and support at this time.​

Sincerely,

Shauna Boyce, Superintendent
Parkland School Division