Catholic trustees seek funding boost for school board sick leave costs

School boards in Ontario are appealing to the province for help with staff absenteeism.

New contracts give staff more paid sick days.

The Ontario Catholic School Trustees Association notes that all employee groups are eligible for sick leave of 11 days payable at 100% and 120 days payable at 90%.

Speaking to a legislative committee at a recent pre-budget consultation, President Michael Bellmore says that this has resulted in added costs for school boards.

“Cost increases with these provisions, combined with the indirect costs associated with the replacement of support staff and occasional teachers, as well as the increased administrative burdens in managing higher utilization, are leaving many of our Catholic school boards struggling to meet their obligations,” says Bellmore.

He adds that student learning is also impacted when staffing positions can not be filled.

The Trustees Association is also seeking more flexibility with the funding received from the province.

Executive Director Patrick Daley says current restrictions should be eased.

“The intersection between inadequate funding and a lack of flexibility is placing school boards under significant financial pressures and really limiting their ability to maintain current programs and to add additional programs that are much needed by students,” says Daley.

The Association says there is also a need to address the funding requirements for special education.

It recommends a working group to study the issue.