As support staff at the School District of Mystery Lake began picketing outside the school board office yesterday morning after four years of contract negotiations, the board’s chairperson says disruption of services is to be expected.

In a letter to parents, Lindsey Anderson states the district will aim to continue all the educational services that are possible.

She also requests that all school registrations be directed to the school board office rather than through the schools due to picket lines that may present at some schools.

Anderson writes the district will continue to work toward an agreement with the United Steelworkers Local 8223 in order to bring an end to this strike as soon as possible.

The union, which represents employees including custodians, maintenance staff, library clerks, secretaries, and educational assistance, have been without a contract since April 2017.