The parent of a child at Burgeo Academy is looking for answers after he says one of the school’s full-time student assistant positions was cut.

Chris Durnford says his family was notified of the cut earlier this summer.

Durnford says there are three children at the school who require full-time support, including his son.

He says his son, who has autism, is considered a “runner,” meaning he needs to be watched at all times. He says the other two students “absolutely” need full time support as well, meaning one of them is going to be without the proper support.

Durnford has reached out to the department of education, but didn’t get any answers as to why the position was cut.

He has also been speaking with the principal of Burgeo Academy, who he says is doing his best to help.

He says the principal told him that support will be in place one way or another, but they may have to re-allocate some teachers.

Department responds

In a statement to VOCM News, the department of education says the allocation of student assistants is ongoing, and more adjustments may be made as the school year approaches.

They say allocation decisions are made in consultation with the student services team and school administration to ensure appropriate supports are in place, and the department is working with all schools to make sure staffing reflects the needs of the school community.