Dear Edmonton Public Schools Board of Trustees,                                         

I am writing as a concerned member of the Edmonton Public Schools community regarding the ongoing support staff strike. This issue significantly impacts our schools, staff, students, and their families. I urge the Board to share its position on the strike and clarify where it stands concerning wage increases for the support staff represented by CUPE Local 3550.

The Trustees’ Handbook emphasizes your role as advocates and stewards of public education, stating:

"The Board represents the interests of the community and reflects the values of the community in its decision-making."
"The Board serves as a communication bridge between the community and the Division."
"The Board evaluates the performance of the Superintendent of Schools to ensure accountability to students and the public and alignment with the Division's mission, vision, and values."
Previous attempts to engage with the Board on this matter have been met with the response that you are "unable to comment." This lack of communication contradicts your stated responsibilities to advocate for community voices and to provide transparent governance. Remaining silent on an issue of such significance undermines public trust and diminishes the Board’s accountability to those it serves.

As the employer and a key participant in the collective bargaining process, the Board’s engagement is essential. Your governance structure requires transparency and advocacy to maintain public confidence in the education system and to ensure equitable outcomes for staff and students alike. The ongoing strike underscores the urgent need for the Board to evaluate the Superintendent's leadership, specifically their ability to align operational decisions with the Division's mission of inclusive, quality education. This evaluation should also include the Superintendent's advocacy efforts against government policies that hinder the Division's ability to achieve this mission. 

I respectfully request that the Board publicly communicate its position on the strike and the support staff’s wage concerns. The community deserves clarity and reassurance that our elected Trustees are fulfilling their mandate to lead with accountability and to ensure the best interests of all students, staff, and families.

Thank you for addressing this matter promptly. I look forward to your response and any steps you will take to provide transparency on this critical issue.

Sincerely,

A Concerned Albertan