FORT ST. JOHN -- An internal survey conducted by School District 60 has revealed that education staff are ‘struggling’ to find suitable childcare, which is affecting teachers' ability to return to work.
According to the survey, 36 of the 100 respondents said they would defer returning to work due to childcare space challenges, while another 23 indicated they would need to extend parental leave beyond a year, leading the school district to explore possible options.
"If there's a way that we can add some infant toddler spaces on our properties, that could help ameliorate the situation for our recruitment and retention of professional staff as well as other members of the community," said Jarrod Bell, Director of Instruction for District 60.
Bell highlighted that many new teacher hires are seeking childcare as a requirement for employment.
"Childcare can be a significant portion of somebody's income, and in some cases, more than what they're they're making," adds Bell.
In a letter addressed to Fort St. John City Council, District 60 emphasized that the issue is exacerbating a shortage of teachers and professional staff.
To address increased demand, the district is looking to develop two new childcare projects designed for infants and toddlers. One project aims to create a childcare hub at Alwin Holland Elementary School, while another seeks to expand existing childcare seats at Robert Ogilvie Elementary.
The school district is requesting a letter of support from the city to strengthen funding applications for the projects.
The letter will be presented to Fort St. John’s Mayor and Council for a decision during an October 28 regular meeting.