The Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) announced this week it's losing childcare options at schools in Exeter and Hensall.
The board said London Bridge Child Care notified families last week that it would be withdrawing its before and after school programs at Exeter Elementary School and Bluewater Coast Elementary School. The preschool program at Bluewater Coast is also ending.
The board does not operate licensed childcare programs, but partners with childcare providers to make use of school spaces where possible.
AMDSB thanked London Bridge for its partnership over the years, while also acknowledging that the decision leaves families in a difficult spot with school right around the corner.
The board said it is working with Huron County and the local municipalities to identify other solutions. Updates will be shared with families as soon as they are available.
With staffing challenges affecting childcare operators in the region, AMDSB has already been looking to fill gaps at three other Huron County schools and one Perth County school that had their contracts terminated over the last three years.
Anyone that may be interested in offering a service is encouraged to reach out to Laurel Mitchell, Facilities Supervisor at (519) 527-0111 ext. 600205 or by email at laurel.mitchell@ed.amdsb.ca.
