Abbotsford School District Reports on 2025-26 Startup Details

The Abbotsford School District presented its 2025-26 school startup report to the board of education on September 23, 2024. The report included key figures concerning student enrolment and staffing challenges as schools prepare to commence the academic year.

Enrolment numbers indicate a slight decline in elementary and middle school students compared to budget projections. Specifically, elementary enrolment decreased by eight students, while middle school numbers fell by 41. In contrast, secondary school enrolment aligns with the district’s budget expectations. The district now has a total of 397 elementary divisions, down from 398 last year, and 160 middle school divisions, remaining unchanged from the previous year.

Recruitment for teaching staff continues to be a challenge, although the number of continuing teachers has risen to 196, up from 175 in the 2024-25 academic year. There are also 177 temporary teaching positions available for 2025-26. The overall number of filled teacher positions increased significantly, reaching 373 compared to 310 last year. However, the number of teachers teaching on call has decreased from 195 to 170. Additionally, the number of unqualified teachers on call rose from 29 to 49.

The introduction of Uncertified Employees Teaching on Call (UETOC) has played a role in addressing staffing shortages. This initiative, started in 2023, has resulted in 37 UETOC hired last year returning for the current academic year. These individuals hold university degrees and aspire to become certified teachers.

Support staff numbers reflect a robust hiring process, with 110 internal positions filled, along with 127 casual educational assistants and 57 other casual employees. Last year, the district experienced 57 resignations and 25 retirements among support staff.

In a significant development, the district announced the establishment of a new Learning Improvement Fund to enhance student support through educational assistants (EAs). This initiative aims to provide additional hours for EAs and opportunities for professional development. Furthermore, the Before and After Childcare Assistant – Letter of Understanding has been extended for a second year.

Investments in technology include the purchase of 1,800 new laptops and 200 desktop computers to replace aging equipment. Most schools have completed upgrades to Windows 11 for computer lab software, with remaining installations scheduled for completion during the winter break.

The report noted a slight decrease in ticket numbers for the 2024-25 school year, indicating a potential shift in student engagement. Several capital projects are planned for the current academic year, including sidewalk restoration at Irene Kelleher Totíltawtxw and an eight-classroom addition at Abbotsford Middle School. Additional projects focus on enhancing electrical systems at Auguston and Margaret Stenersen elementary schools, along with HVAC improvements at Rick Hansen.

The district has relocated three portable classrooms from Margaret Stenersen to Bakerview, Yale, and Mouat, and two from Auguston to W.A. Fraser. Playground enhancements are underway with swing set installations at Barrowtown, while paving improvements are set for Harry Sayers and Eugene Reimer schools.

A highlight from the report is the success of the seventh edition of the Back to School Program, held on August 27, which provided a record 750 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to children. This year marked a notable expansion, as 200 backpacks were distributed to middle school students, compared to 530 backpacks last year. Each participating family received a $25 gift card to Superstore to assist with additional school-related expenses.

Support from local organizations has been instrumental in the program’s success. Archway Community Services, The Salvation Army, and Tim Hortons were acknowledged for their contributions. Additionally, JD Sports donated 150 winter coats, which were given to students at various schools, including Godson Elementary and Abbotsford Senior Secondary. A cash donation from Aggressive Towing further supported the initiative.

The next board meeting is scheduled for October 21, 2024, where the winner of the upcoming trustee byelection will also be welcomed.