Where it is determined by the Division that a lay‑off is necessary and where natural attrition, transfers, sabbaticals and leaves of absence do not effect the necessary reduction in staff, the Division shall give first consideration to retaining teachers having the greatest seniority with the Division.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Division shall have the right to disregard the seniority of any teacher in the event of a lay‑off, if such teacher does not have the necessary training and/or academic qualifications and/or experience and/or ability for a specific teaching assignment.