The Foothills Schools Division (FSD) is currently in negotiations with CUPE Local 5040 which haven't had a contract since August of 2020.

Lesley Cole, President of the Union for the school support staff says they haven't seen a big pay increase in the last 12 years.

"We are hoping for a wage that reflects the work that we do, a living wage because over 12 years we have received a two per cent pay raise," Cole said.

Cole stated why that the pandemic has been one of the reasons they haven't had a contract for nearly four years.

"Everything was put on hold, we agreed with the school division to re-exchange our proposals. We just recommenced our negotiations and we will be meeting at the end of this month."

The Foothills School Division released a statement which says they are looking forward to completing a new contract.

"We truly value the great work that our school support staff provides and look forward to concluding a new collective agreement that's in line with parameters given to us by the Provincial Government."

For those who want to support CUPE Local 5040, Cole says they are encouraged to wear purple shirts on Wednesdays and use the hashtag #PurpleFightsPoverty on social media.