York Region School Board to Eliminate 250 Jobs Ahead of 2026-27 Academic Year

The York Region District School Board is set to eliminate nearly 250 education-related positions ahead of the 2026-27 academic year, a move that has drawn strong criticism from labour unions. According to the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 1734, the planned cuts will affect 201 educational assistant positions, 36 secretarial and administrative staff roles, six technology worker positions, and six library technician jobs. In total, 249 positions are expected to be impacted. The union expressed concern that the reductions would have a serious impact on student safety, education quality, and the overall school environment. Union President Michelle Campbell said schools are already dealing with staffing shortages and warned that every cut would directly affect students. Criticizing both the provincial government and the school board, the union argued that reducing support staff would place additional pressure on schools and negatively affect essential services provided to students. Meanwhile, the York Region District School Board stated that the decision was necessary due to declining student enrolment. The board said efforts are being made to place affected employees into other available positions wherever possible.