North Pembroke School District reduces staff amid declining enrollment

Pembroke Public Schools is set to implement a series of enrollment-related staff reductions for the upcoming school year, reflecting a continuing trend of declining student numbers across the district. During a recent school committee meeting, officials outlined specific changes that will affect several grade levels and positions.

The district has observed a gradual decrease in enrollment across 13 grades in five buildings, leading to the decision to reduce staffing in a measured manner. Notably, North Pembroke will operate with one less section of third grade, while Habemoc will see a similar reduction in sixth grade. Additionally, the middle school will adjust to two fewer staff members, resulting in a split team that will teach both seventh and eighth grades. This change is designed to maintain educational quality, as students are not expected to notice any significant difference in their learning experience.

Furthermore, the district will eliminate a vacant position for an English language learner (ELL) teacher, which has remained unfilled for the past two years. Although the need for ELL services persists, the number of students requiring this support has slightly decreased, prompting the decision to remove the position from the budget.

Importantly, these staffing reductions will not displace any current employees, as they will be realized through retirements and other departures. This approach aims to minimize disruption while addressing the district's changing enrollment landscape.

As Pembroke Public Schools navigates these adjustments, officials expressed gratitude for the strong administrative support within the district, emphasizing a commitment to maintaining educational standards despite the challenges posed by declining enrollment. The community can expect ongoing updates as the district adapts to these changes in the coming school year.