The Halifax regional council's recent decision to phase out funding for school library support staff and transition permanent social worker roles into term positions has raised significant concerns regarding the support available for vulnerable students. Nearly 100 school librarians and 18 social workers now face an uncertain future as the council voted 9-4 to ratify a new five-year supplementary education funding agreement that prioritizes music and fine arts programs. Shelley McNeil, president of CUPE 5047, expressed that schools are not in a position to cut support staff, stressing the need for additional resources. Meanwhile, Peter Day, president of the Nova Scotia Teachers Union, reported that social workers are feeling scared and frustrated due to the uncertainty surrounding their jobs. Councillor Sam Austin, who opposed the funding cuts, warned that reduced resources could lead to worse educational outcomes. Mayor Andy Fillmore defended the decision, stating it aims for a sustainable funding approach while acknowledging that HRM is the only municipality in Nova Scotia providing supplementary funding beyond provincial contributions. The Halifax Regional Centre for Education has noted that some roles will not be filled due to attrition, emphasizing the need to ensure students receive necessary support during this transition.