Community group says City School closure will disproportionately affect vulnerable Hamiltonians

A community group is gathering for one last shot to save City School by Mohawk College – a program that offers free post-secondary and employment-pathways courses to people who can’t afford the costs of going to school.

In December 2024, Mohawk College announced its decision to “wind down” the mobile school, citing a lack of permanent funding.

The decision to axe the program came during a wave of budget and jobs cuts following provincial restrictions on international students.

City School drop-in locations closed on Feb. 10, and the college says it will not be offering courses beyond March 31.

While the end of the nine-year initiative looks imminent, a community group is still trying to save the program.

READ MORE: Mohawk College eliminates 127 support staff positions

The Save City School Campaign plans to hold a press conference to highlight the impact of the program closure.

They say cutting the program will leave Hamiltonians without accessible educational opportunities, which will disproportionally affect vulnerable community members.

“This is not just about a program being shut down, it’s about lost opportunities for those who need them the most,” said Erin Carr, Executive Director of Solidarity Place Worker Education Centre.

“We are calling on the college to reconsider its decision and urging the province to step in with long-term solutions that will ensure the sustainability of City School and community-based adult education.

The press conference is scheduled to take place at the Hamilton Regional Indian Centre at 10 a.m. March 27.

Attendees can expect to hear from former City School students, faculty, community partners, and Hamilton Centre MPP Robin Lennox.

READ MORE: Rally at Mohawk College for underfunding concerns