The provincial fiscal watchdog says the Ford government’s move to increase class sizes will result in approximately 10,000 fewer teachers over the next five years.

(The Star)

Financial Accountability Officer Peter Weltman estimates there’ll be 9,060 fewer high school teachers and 994 fewer elementary teachers by the 2023-24 school year.

His report goes on to say the changes will save the province about $2.8-billion over that same period and a further $1-billion annually.

”The class sizes have been reduced so those teacher jobs will no longer be required,” adds Weltman.

”It’s not a cut, it’s a cost avoidance.”

Education Minister Stephen Lecce says the report recognizes the government’s plan to avoid layoffs is working.

NDP education critic Marit Stiles says the province is trying to balance its budget on the backs of students.