Job cuts or no job cuts? That is the question.
Earlier this week, the union representing more than 700 education workers at the Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board sounded the alarm over staffing cuts it says will endanger students and workers alike.
CUPE Local 1453 says the board’s plan to cut 23 educational assistant positions next school year is “unacceptable” and will worsen an already dangerous staffing crisis.
Local President Nora Shaughnessy spoke with MBC about the situation.
Shaughnessy adds that members are forced to manage growing caseloads with fewer resources.
However, board officials say there are no cuts coming – that in fact the 2025–26 budget includes funding for 300 special education workers, an increase from 289. Special education workers include educational assistants, autism spectrum disorder workers and itinerant staff.
The board went on to highlight this year’s draft budget also includes: An increase of 3.2 full-time equivalent special education teachers, and maintained staffing levels in social work, speech-language pathology, and psychological services.
“Educational assistants and support staff are essential to creating safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments for all students,” said Stephen O’Sullivan, director of education. “We are grateful for their ongoing dedication and we remain committed to investing in the support our students need to thrive.”
The draft 2025–26 budget was presented to the board of trustees on June 24 and a final vote will be held on July 15.
(Written by: Jordan Mercier)
