Peel secondary schools reopen to students and teachers on May 27 - what to expect on first day back

MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 26, 2015 /CNW/ - Today, the Ontario Labour Relations Board ruled that local secondary teachers' strikes, directed by the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation (OSSTF), in Durham, Peel and Rainbow district school boards are in contravention of the School Boards Collective Bargaining Act, 2014. As a result of this ruling, secondary students and teachers will return to schools on May 27.

"We know that with this short notice it won't be a perfect return to school tomorrow, but our incredible staff will make sure it is the best possible one for our students," said Janet McDougald, chair of the Peel board.

Below is a list of important updates to give students and staff an idea of what they can expect on the first day back:

1. Buses will operate tomorrow, but students should expect delays and some runs where buses may not be available. Travel assistants may not be available for all students with special education needs. Families and students should plan accordingly.
2. Cafeterias will not be open, so students and staff should make alternate arrangements.
3. Students in co-op are to attend school and not their co-op placements.
4. The first two days back to school will be review days.
5. Coursework that was due during the strike will not be due the first week back after a strike. All secondary schools will have a moratorium on assignments and assessments for a period of one week, beginning tomorrow.
6. A synervoice message has been left for all secondary school families this evening to inform them that students will return to school tomorrow and to share what day on the timetable it will be.
7. A letter will go home with students this week with more information on how the school year will continue.

We know students and families have other questions about final exams, reimbursement of school fees, rescheduled events, etc.  We are looking into these and will make decisions that are in the best interests of students.  Families will receive information as details are finalized.

Labour updates on secondary and elementary job action are available at www.peelschools.org/labour.

SOURCE Peel District School Board

Media contact: Janet McDougald, Chair of the Board, [email protected], 905-278-1402; Reference: Brian Woodland, Director of Communications & Community Relations Support Services, [email protected], 647-224-0029