Elementary school students. (© Can Stock Photo / oksun70)Elementary school students. (© Can Stock Photo / oksun70)
Sarnia

Over 50 fewer jobs at public board as classes resume

There are over 50 fewer jobs at the Lambton-Kent District School Board with classes set to resume Tuesday.

In April the board notified 111 full-time equivalent (FTE) teachers about potential staffing changes due to anticipated reductions in provincial government funding.

Following the release of specific grant information in May, the board began the process of recalling 82 teachers, 41 elementary and 41 secondary.

Director of Education John Howitt said while the majority of teachers have been called back due to retirements and resignations, there is still a net job loss across the board.

"A total of 54 FTE positions we'll be down, predominately around declining enrolment, retirements, and resignations," said Howitt. "As well as employees transitioning to other roles."

The board said the numbers continue to change as they move through their staffing and budgeting processes.

Howitt said the public board's projected enrolment this year is 21,775 students.

The board's Pupil Accommodation Report last fall said enrolment has dropped nearly 28 per cent since amalgamation in 1998.

-With files from Melanie Irwin

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