Greetings,
This is an important update to funding for Professional Development and Education opportunities.
The Service Improvement Allocation (SIA) was one time funding provided by the Province during the last round of bargaining in 2019 with the intention of enhancing services to students and the general public.
At the bargaining table, the VSB and CUPE Local 15 agreed to use the bulk of these funds to go towards training for our members. In doing that, our members could utilize those funds to assist in offsetting the cost of continuing education and professional development which then leads to improving the services our members provide.
The available funds will be distributed through the SIA Committee from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022 through an application process.
The SIA Fund is in addition to, and can be combined with, The Joint Career Development Committee as outlined in our current collective agreement.
To use both the Joint Career Development Committee funds and the SIA funds you must fill out both application forms separately.
It is important to note that neither of these funds cover substitute costs, transportation, meals, lodging, or professional membership fees. Professional membership fees are only paid should the employer require the member to have the membership.
Employees can apply to both the SIA for two hundred and fifty dollars ($250) and Joint Career Development (Clause 11.U.1 VSB/CUPE15 Collective Agreement), two hundred ($200) by completing both application forms separately.
The application forms also provide further information on what the funds cover.
In addition the union Professional Development Committee is working jointly with the employer to provide additional in-house training opportunities for members.
We encourage all members to take advantage of these funding opportunities to enhance education and career development goals.
Should you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact human resources or the union office.
In solidarity,
Warren Williams, President – CUPE Local 15
Debbie Mohabir, Secretary-Treasurer – CUPE Local 15
Cynthia Schadt, VSB Chief Shop Steward
Kathie Currie, CUPE Local 15 Staff Representative