Grand Erie's 2023-24 School-Year Budget Approved 

TUESDAY, JUNE 27, 2023

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rand Erie District School Board approved balanced 2023-24 operating and capital budgets during the Regular Board meeting on Monday, June 26. Both budgets will now be submitted to the Ministry of Education.

"This budget has been carefully developed by senior administration and Trustees in alignment with the priorities outlined in Grand Erie’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan and by the Ministry of Education," said Rafal Wyszynski, Superintendent of Business and Treasurer. "Our goal is to maintain the positive momentum generated in the last school year, enhance educational experiences, and further invest in classroom resources."

As a result of increased revenues, Grand Erie's operating budget is approximately $369 million, up $13.8 million from last year's approved operating budget. This allows for key investments such as increased classroom supports, a strong focus on math and early literacy instruction, supports for student mental health and well-being, and continued renewal projects and upgrades to buildings and facilities to accommodate growing populations. 

"Through a collaborative process, this budget is the result of what communities have told us they need," said Susan Gibson, Chair of the Board of Trustees. "It delivers the learning lift that's necessary following a few challenging years, with strong investments renewing our commitments to providing quality education, supporting the well-being and belonging goals that make schools safe, inclusive and inspiring spaces to learn, and investing in the people who make it possible."

Total projected student enrollment is expected to be 27,000, up approximately 1,140 from the 2022-23 school year. 

"Our financial achievements in Grand Erie tell a story of strong growth and forward momentum, aligned with our strategic vision to learn, lead and inspire, and our mission to build inclusive environments fostering learning, well-being and belonging," said JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education. "The communities our schools serve are growing, and with that comes exciting opportunities as we work towards meeting needs and expectations to deliver the best education and school experiences possible."

Budget highlights include:

• Hiring of 76 additional staff positions across the district including teachers, child and youth workers, educational assistants, clerical staff, custodial services personnel and various other roles

• Capital budget with nearly $27 million allocated for investments into buildings, renovations, upgrades and repairs
• Uses revenue generated by enrolment growth to preserve positions previously supported by the learning recovery program and tutoring support funds, both one-time, limited Ministry-funded allocations
• Increased investments in pupil transportation 

The fiscal year for Ontario school boards runs from September 1 to August 31. 

The Grand Erie Budget 2023-24 document can be found online here.