Parents at Ponsonby Community Preschool are considering pulling their children out due to conflicts with management. They released a statement saying they are upset that long-term staff members are leaving. This issue arose after the board decided to extend the preschool’s hours from 8:30 am-4 pm to 8 am-5:30 pm.
Parents claim 40% of the staff are quitting, and more may follow. They expressed their deep concern, saying, “The teachers are like family to us.” They also noted that 90% of children who have over two months left before starting school would leave if more staff departed.
Despite attempts to resolve the situation with the board, parents felt ignored and frustrated. Parents sent emails to the board detailing their concerns, but they felt their communications were dismissed.
Nick Davies, chair of the Ponsonby Community Centre, which runs the preschool, stated that most parents supported the extended hours when first proposed. He explained that their decision was aimed at improving enrollment, as they had seen a decline and needed to meet the needs of working families.
Davies acknowledged that some parents are unhappy with the changes but emphasized the need for the preschool to offer flexible hours for all families, especially during tough financial times. He stated the current staff-to-child ratio of 1:5 is unsustainable.
Recently, two staff members resigned, and one requested to leave voluntarily. Davies mentioned that misinformation may have affected discussions about staff schedules. He assured that the board wants to keep their teachers and supports their choices.
The board agreed to meet with parents on August 7. While parents said the preschool promised to delay the new hours, they feel it’s too late and have lost trust in the board. They have also filed a complaint with the Ministry of Education and are considering legal action.
