Good afternoon all,
I hope this message finds you as well as possible during such chaotic and difficult times.
Today, I feel compelled to address a matter that weighs heavily on my heart and, undoubtedly, yours as well.
Recent decisions regarding staffing and hours have left many of us feeling frustrated and disheartened. I want to express my deep disappointment with the way our team and its contributions have been valued. The cutting of hours and roles are not just numbers on a spreadsheet, but they represent real people – dedicated and talented employees who have poured their energy, time, and passion into making our Division what it is today.
It is disconcerting to witness decisions made by our employer that do not honour the loyalty and hard work that our employees have shown. Unfortunately, as the employer, they have the legal right to change support staff allocations, hours of work, schedules, create and phase out job classifications, as well as direct transfers. That said, we aren’t completely helpless in this. We all have the ability as employees, as parents, and as community members to voice our concerns.
As a team, I encourage you to share your thoughts and feelings during this challenging time. Your voices matter, and it is important that we remain committed to one another. I am here to listen and advocate on your behalf, as every one of you deserves a workplace that respects your contribution and sustains your well-being.
With that in mind, I need your help. Mine is one voice. If there’s anything we learned during the strike, it’s that when we fight together, we win. I urge you all to contact the powers that be; the Superintendents and Trustees at Foothills School Division, parents, members of the community, and whomever else you think might have an interest in what meager support could mean for students.
Christopher Fuzessy, Superintendent of Schools and Chief Education Officer of Foothills School Division – superintendent@fsd38.ab.ca
Drew Chipman, Assistant Superintendent and corporate services – chipmand@fsd38.ab.ca
Allen Davidson, Assistant Superintendent and employee services – davidsona@fsd38.ab.ca
Caroline Roberts, Assistant Superintendent and learning services – robertsc@fsd38.ab.ca
â—Ź School board trustees: (These are elected officials who should care about bettering our schools)
○ Jack Molyneux – molyneuxj@fsd38.ab.ca
○ John Evans – evansj@fsd38.ab.ca
○ Theresa Letendre – letendret@fsd38.ab.ca
○ Sharon Nichols – nicholss@fsd38.ab.ca
○ Lisa Penzo – penzol@fsd38.ab.ca
○ Phil Irwin – irwinp@fsd38.ab.ca
Lastly, I have attached an updated AP as the last one had an error in calculating hours for the Accounting Administrator position.
Thank you all for your grace and understanding with your fellow support workers and ATA members, this is a difficult time for everyone.
Carla Penhalagan
CUPE President Local 5040
Stronger Together!
