School support staff on Prince Edward Island have finalized an agreement with the provincial education system, securing a wage hike to offset inflationary losses over the past two years. The negotiations, led by CUPE Local 3260, representing the support staff, commenced after the expiration of their previous contract in March 2024.
According to union officials, the new deal entails wage increments ranging from 18 to 20 percent spread over a three-year period, inclusive of retroactive payments. Colleen Jackson, the President of CUPE Local 3260, expressed satisfaction with the agreement but emphasized the need for further progress.
While acknowledging the significance of the wage increase for their members, Jackson stressed that it marks a step forward rather than the ultimate goal. The roles covered under the contract for support staff encompass various functions within the education system, including youth and mental health workers, workplace assistants, and others.
Jackson emphasized the critical role these staff members play in supporting both students and teachers, highlighting that without their assistance, students would struggle to attend school. She mentioned that the support staff cater to the most vulnerable students, providing aid with medical, behavioral, and academic needs, including implementing individualized plans for students with diverse requirements.
The newly negotiated contract extends coverage to primary support workers engaged in social and emotional development for students from kindergarten to Grade 2. Jackson revealed that the Public Schools Branch currently employs two such workers.
An additional demand put forth by the union during negotiations was to include a seventh working hour each day, which was not included in the final agreement. Jackson explained that prioritizing the wage increase aimed to alleviate financial burdens on members promptly, with plans to revisit discussions on adding the extra hour in future negotiation rounds.
Jackson highlighted the inadequacy of a six-hour workday for support staff, stressing the importance of allocating more time for job responsibilities. She emphasized the necessity of collaboration with teachers and school teams, attending meetings, communicating with families, and enhancing preparation for students on a daily basis.
The anticipated commencement of the new contract aligns with the upcoming school year in September, with retroactive pay for 2024 and 2025 scheduled for distribution in October as a lump sum payment.