Ottawa’s largest school district is finalizing a shakeup of staff and students at 40 schools as enrollment declines this school year.

The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) reported that elementary school enrollment was 1,130 students below projections in September, including 750 children not enrolled in kindergarten. That led to the reduction of 42 teaching positions and the reorganization of classrooms.

“That reorganization will be completed this week, and by Friday, all students will be in their new classrooms,” said Sean Lehman, OCDSB superintendent.

The shortage of students affected 40 schools, with 38 cutting one classroom and two cutting two classrooms. However, two schools added one classroom.

This decrease in student enrollment is expected to have a significant impact on the district's budget for the 2024-25 school year.

Yuri Natchetoy