Preschool staffing improves over previous years
Staffing at the City's preschools has gone more smoothly this fall than in either of the past two years. Overall, 67% of preschools are fully staffed or close to it.
Currently, more than 30 positions remain unfilled. That number rises to around 50 when factoring in anticipated staff changes. At this time last year, 74 positions remained vacant. In mid-September 2024, the shortage stood at 123 positions. On average, about 2,300 people work in approximately 1,800 positions across the city's preschools.
About 16 preschools have active job postings and are generally receiving applications, though some applicants lack the necessary qualifications. Preschool directors cite Icelandic language proficiency, professional training and relevant experience as factors influencing hiring decisions.
Preschool adjustment generally going well for new children
Overall, children's adjustment to preschool appears to be going well. Most preschools have either begun the phase-in period for all children offered a placement or expect the remaining children to start in September or early October. However, various factors can delay the preschool transition, including a child's age, parents' preferences, notice periods with a day parent, relocations or housing situations.
Preschool directors provided responses last week regarding staffing levels and the adjustment of newly enrolled children. This year's survey used a slightly different format than in previous years, so the results are not fully comparable. The results do indicate, however, that staffing is considerably better than in recent years.