October 7, 2026 - Yesterday, Vancouver School Board (VSB) applied for mediation as part of ongoing local collective bargaining with IUOE Local 963, which represents some VSB support staff including building engineers, custodians, supervision aides, cafeteria and food services staff. VSB and IUOE have engaged in local collective bargaining since October 2025 and have met 11 times. 

VSB remains committed to bargaining in good faith and has applied for mediation to help advance discussions. Mediation provides an opportunity for a neutral third party to support discussions and help both parties work through outstanding issues and identify areas of common ground. Applying for mediation does not mean job action is imminent. Rather, it provides another opportunity for the parties to work constructively toward a renewed collective agreement.

VSB has proposed updating certain qualification requirements to better reflect the work currently performed at school sites and address recruitment challenges. The proposed changes would not reduce pay and benefits, while maintaining required safety and regulatory standards.

There is currently no job action underway and schools and district operations continue as usual. Under B.C. labour legislation, several steps must occur before any strike or lockout action can take place. We have contingency plans in place and are prepared to take appropriate steps to support school and district operations in the event of any job action.

Update October 8, 2026:

Following VSB’s application for mediation, a mediator has now been assigned and mediated discussions are scheduled to begin today. 

The appointment of a mediator is a constructive next step in the collective bargaining process. 

Update October 14, 2026:

Through the mediator, the VSB and union met on Thursday, October 8, 2026 and Tuesday, October 13, 2026.  Since October 2025, both parties have met 13 times for local collective bargaining, including two mediation sessions. The parties have now agreed to continue negotiations on October 19.  

VSB remains committed to working constructively through the local bargaining process. 

There is currently no job action underway and VSB schools and facilities continue to operate as usual. There are no changes to scheduled programs, services or facility access at this time.