Dear McKenzie Lake Families,

It was wonderful to see our students enjoying the outdoors as the weather finally warmed up after the deep freeze! Next week, we’ll face some new challenges, with freezing temperatures overnight and melting during the day causing snow and ice to re-freeze. When walking on the sidewalks and school grounds in the morning, please be cautious of potential icy spots and remember to ‘walk like a penguin.’ We’ll do our best to apply salt and gravel to high-traffic areas.

Our School Council was initially planning a Family Dance for March 13, but with the CUPE Local 40 strike set to begin on Monday, we are awaiting confirmation on whether the event can still proceed. If we’re able to move forward, we will send out more details on how to sign up to volunteer, purchase tickets, and information about the event time. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate the strike’s impact in the coming weeks.

Next week, our Grade 4 classes will host an assembly on Wednesday, February 26, and we invite families to attend. Doors will open at 1:15 p.m., and the performance will start at 1:30 p.m. We also encourage attendees to wear pink in honor of Pink Shirt Day at McKenzie Lake School.

Reminder: Friday, February 28, is a PD Day, so there will be no school for students.

CUPE Local 40 Job Action

  • As you are likely aware, CUPE Local 40 members have served strike notice to the Calgary Board of Education
  • The union, which includes school facilities and cleaning staff, are set to withdraw services beginning Monday, February 24
  • Information to families regarding the strike action will be communicated centrally by the CBE – not by individual schools
  • The information below is messaging from the Calgary Board of Education regarding the pending strike action:
    • The CBE is prioritizing in-person learning – all CBE schools and buildings will remain open and classes will continue
    • However, a strike will have an impact on schools and operations
    • We are committed to ensuring schools remain a place where students, staff and families feel valued, supported and safe
    • CUPE Local 40 members are an important part of our school communities
    • We value the contributions of all employees who support student success, and we respect the bargaining process
    • We are committed to bargaining in good faith to reach a new collective agreement
  • The following link will take you to extensive information and updates regarding the strike: CBE Labour Action Page

 

Sincerely,


Dayna McComish