A jump in enrollment has prompted Western School Division to approve additional teaching hours.

While the division had planned for a large influx of students when preparing the budget, trustees say the 7 percent increase has led to unbudgeted staffing adjustments.

"We did have a plan for some growth this fall, but the reality hit at the end of September and it was significantly more than what we were anticipating," Board Chair Brian Fransen says. "We are just making sure we're supporting our students and staff appropriately with these increases."

More Educational Assistant hours, as well as Vice-Principal time has been approved in both Maple Leaf and Minnewasta schools. Additional Education Assistant hours were also approved for Ecole Morden Middle School. "It will mean putting a person into a role they didn't have before and adding some hours to another person," Fransen explains.

"The Board considers these measured staffing adjustments to be smart investments in our students," the division stated in a release. "As a locally elected Board, they were able to respond to this pressing need."

Officials say work to fill these positions will begin immediately.