Halton District School Board approves a balanced budget for the 2026-2027 school year
Balanced budget addresses a $7.1 million deficit and prioritizes learning experiences, targeting 98% of funding toward student success
June 17, 2026 – At the June 16, 2026 Board meeting, Trustees of the Halton District School Board (HDSB) approved a balanced budget for the 2026-2027 school year.
The development of this budget was guided by the HDSB’s 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan and informed by extensive input from students, families, staff and community members. Their contributions reinforced the critical need to maintain the programs and services that enable students to thrive. In the 2026-2027 school year, these investments will directly support more than 64,500 students and 6,500 (full-time equivalent) staff in 92 elementary schools, 16 secondary schools and five continuing education centres across the region.
"This budget is presented within the context of the remarkable achievements of our students and staff," says Curtis Ennis, Chief Executive Officer of the HDSB. "Across the HDSB, students are excelling in academics, athletics, the arts and skilled trades, with rising graduation rates and success in post-secondary pathways. This environment of excellence is fostered by our dedicated educators and staff.”
To achieve a balanced budget that meets financial obligations, the HDSB navigated a challenging financial landscape. The process began with a baseline deficit of $7.1 million, which was further impacted by a projected decline in student enrolment which resulted in a reduction of funding and anticipated increases in operating costs. Through diligent planning, the HDSB closed this gap by successfully identifying $16.9 million in total savings, efficiencies and new revenue opportunities. This process required careful decision-making to align spending with funding and Ministry requirements, all while maintaining a commitment to direct 98% of funding directly toward student success.
"Our responsibility remains to invest thoughtfully in the learning experiences and supports that enable students to succeed," continues Ennis. "The 2026-2027 budget is a balanced budget that meets our financial obligations. At the same time, we recognize that achieving balance has required difficult decisions".
"I want to thank Trustees for their dedication and continued advocacy on behalf of public education, our leaders and staff for their work and careful considerations throughout this process and the Ministry of Education for their partnership and support. Our responsibility is clear: to advance a budget that is financially responsible, aligned with our strategic goals and, most importantly, centred on the success and well-being of students".
Further details on the 2026-2027 budget are available on the HDSB website (hdsb.ca).
HDSB 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan
The 2024-2028 Multi-Year Strategic Plan sets direction and prioritizes the collective actions of all students, staff, families and community members. This plan ensures our efforts as an organization are aligned and coordinated to support more than 64,500 students, 11,000 total staff and the broader HDSB community. The six commitments identified in this four-year plan intersect and overlap to ensure that we take a cohesive approach to fulfilling its objectives.
Background resources
Budget and Financial Information
For additional information, contact: Heather Francey, General Manager of Communications & Engagement
communications@hdsb.ca | 905-335-3663, Toll free: 1-877-618-3456
