FORT MCMURRAY, Alberta — Classes will continue even if support staff go on strike, according to a joint statement from the Fort McMurray Public and Catholic school districts.

The districts assured parents that schools will remain open even if support staff walk off the job. The school boards confirmed they have not been able to reach a mediated settlement with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Locals 2545 and 2559, which represent school support workers.

While the districts expressed their commitment to negotiating with CUPE and addressing outstanding issues, the presidents of both locals said they plan to hold a joint strike vote after the mandatory cooling-off period ends on Sept. 6.

School support staff have been working without a contract for nearly four years.