Communication from Heather Quinn

Latest Updates from the EPTL 37 President Heather Quinn

Hey folks,

As we near the end of our first week on strike, we wanted to touch base and just offer some information, some opportunities, and some updates.

So consider this your first official I.O.U.!  (This is about as creative as it gets at 7:30 in the morning folks… bear with me.)  

As always, reach out of you need anything.

Yours in solidarity,

Heather
Edmonton Public Teachers Local No. 37 President

INFORMATION

STRIKE HEADQUARTERS:  We have a shared space in the auditorium at Barnett House (110101-142 street) with Edmonton Catholic Local 54.

We have coffee, tea, other hot beverages, pop, etc., as well as a variety of bagels, oatmeal, snacks, and treats.

Looking for something to keep your hands busy? Come down and do a puzzle, colour, play a board game or maybe cards, make a sign, or just sit with colleagues and connect! Feel free to bring your own activities as well.

Window Clings:  Three (3) designs to choose from . . . see reception at Barnett House (11010-142 street) to pick up!

Lawn Signs are all gone, again! Waiting to hear if more are on order!

Donations:  If you are getting questions from parents or the public asking where they can donate to, please ask them to contact the Local office: 780-455-2164 or info@edpub.org.

We’ve also set up a separate hardship account that people can e-transfer funds to if they want to help. These funds will be used to support members that are experiencing challenges with regards to making bill payments, buying groceries, etc.

We’ve converted one of our meeting rooms to a makeshift pantry and will be taking pantry donations for those that need to access it. Ideally grocery gift cards would be better so that those in need are better able to accommodate dietary restrictions/ limitations, allergies, etc.

ASEBP Reminder:  HSA/WSA: Don’t forget to submit your expenses by the October 30th deadline (NOT the 31st). This is for expenses incurred prior to August 31st.

Want to create your own Community Walk? Or know parents that are looking for a way to show support with the same? Please keep these things in mind:

• Don’t block access to anything

• Always be respectful (no offensive language signs or language)

• Do not impede traffic/parking

• Stay off private property without written consent

• Stay off division property

OPPORTUNITIES

FIGHT FOR EDUCATION MARCH on Thursday, October 16th; arrive 10-10:30am and meet in the Ice District Plaza (“Moss Pitt”); Danielle Smith is in town during an address to the Chamber of Commerce in Ford Hall…. So we’re going to remind her that we’re around and be loud!  Wear red! Bring any sign you want! And bring your voice!

Community Walks for Public Education (organized by PIA and EPSAN): We’re changing things up next week and will be walking at two different locations and times!

• Join us at either: North – Telus World of Science parking lot (we will walk along 111 avenue)  or  South – Southgate - Park in the southeast corner of the parking lot closest to Whitemud.

• The morning shift will start (at both locations) at 7:30 – 9:00am.

• The afternoon shift will start at 4:00 – 5:30pm

• Motorists are very supportive with lots of honking and waving. So wear red, bring a friendly sign (*not directed towards govt…. eg. “I’d rather be in my classroom teaching.”)

Workshop: Fact or Fiction – Understanding Fake News – Barnett House (Room 213) 11:00am – 12:00pm

Workshop: Plan Like a Pro with Artificial Intelligence – Barnett House (Boardroom) 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Postcard/Leaflet Neighbourhood Distribution: Come down to pick your neighbourhood, pick-up some info cards with education talking points, and get your steps in delivering to houses based on the map we provide to you. This is a great way to help inform the public of the issues and put pressure on the government!

Regular phone calls to the Minister of Education and the Premier

UPDATES

BARGAINING:  According to the last update, it sounds like the exploratory talks from last week have led to an actual bargaining meeting scheduled for the 14th. I suspect, as has happened in the past, we will receive an update soon after they meet with       any info they are able to share.

EPTL STRIKE HUB:  Our communications committee chair has put together a new webpage dedicated to all things strike related! You’ll be able to find information about goings-on in the Local, events at strike headquarters, and when we have it we’ll do our best to share info about other Local’s events as well.