Sooke Cuts Early Learning Program

Sooke School District is shutting down its early learning pilot program — a move that leaves 11 specialized educators jobless — after slashing $2.2 million to balance its budget. Funded locally, not provincially, the program couldn’t rely on new government support, forcing the district to tap reserves. These educators, trained specifically for preschool-aged children, now face uncertain futures, potentially seeking roles in daycares — while education assistant positions, with different requirements, will open in September. Parents and teachers argue the program made a measurable difference, warning that reduced early support could hurt students’ readiness for school. The district vows to keep pushing for provincial investment, even as budget pressures mount — especially with slower population growth and 85% of funds already locked in for salaries and benefits. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d5095cd2ea51a3f0