Parents are considering pulling their kids out of Ponsonby Community Preschool due to a conflict with management. They are upset that long-time staff members are leaving after the board decided to extend operating hours from 8.30am-4pm to 8am-5.30pm. The parents claim that 40% of the staff are planning to leave, and they fear that more teachers will follow.
In a statement, parents expressed their strong bond with the teachers, saying, “They are part of our family and deserve better treatment.” For parents with children enrolled for more than two months, about 90% indicated they would withdraw their kids if staff continued to leave. They emphasized the importance of the teachers for their children’s education.
Despite parents trying to discuss their concerns with the board, they felt ignored, receiving unhelpful responses. Parents want to resolve this issue but say communication has been frustrating. Emails sent to the board showed their worries, but the situation has not improved.
Nick Davies, chair of the Ponsonby Community Centre, which runs the preschool, noted that parents initially supported the extended hours, with many positive responses to the plan. He expressed sadness over the escalating issue, stating they didn’t expect such a strong reaction.
Davies explained that while parents showed early support, it changed when they realized the impact on staff. He mentioned that enrollment numbers have been declining, and new hours are necessary to attract families needing care during working hours.
He pointed out that the preschool must cater to diverse family needs, especially with many families needing full-time care. The current staff-to-child ratio of 1:5 is not sustainable. Although some parents oppose the extended hours, Davies understands their concerns, as the preschool should provide quality care.
Recently, a couple of staff members resigned, and one asked for voluntary redundancy. There has been confusion about the new hours, but the management wants to work with staff on suitable schedules.
The board agreed to meet with parents on August 7, and last week, they announced a delay in the new hours. However, parents feel this change is too late, and trust in the board is already damaged. They have lodged a complaint with the Ministry of Education and are considering legal action.
