In preparation for the 2021-2022 Budget, the Halton District School Board (the Board) invites parents/guardians, students, staff and community members to provide input into the budget development process.
The Board has always been financially responsible with a clear focus on providing the system with the resources and supports necessary to champion inclusive and equitable practices, strengthen safe environments, create learning conditions for all, promote knowledge and understanding of Indigenous perspectives and take action for a sustainable world. The budget development process aligns the allocation of resources to the Board’s strategic priorities and operating goals identified in the annual operating plan. The 2020-2024
Multi Year Plan (report number
20107) was presented for approval to the Board of Trustees on November 4, 2020.
The current year has presented many challenges for the education sector. HDSB currently offers three learning models: in person for elementary students, hybrid for secondary students and fully virtual for both elementary and secondary students. This of course, comes at a significant cost. The current anticipated deficit for the year is $13.3 million, as the Board has invested significant resources in additional staffing, cleaning, transportation, technology and ventilation. In addition to dedicating Board reserves, the provincial and federal governments also provided HDSB with $26.5 million in additional funding. This year, the focus has been on reducing class sizes where possible, providing support to bridge the learning gaps, supporting mental health and well being of both students and staff, and creating a safe and healthy environment through additional cleaning and sanitation, increased ventilation, and use of personal protective equipment. It is currently unknown how the 2021-2022 school year will shape up. The budget planning process will adjust to information from public health to ensure a safe return to class, and discussions with the Ministry are ongoing in terms of post-COVID-19 areas of focus.
The Halton District School Board receives most of its funding from the province in the form of Grants for Student Needs. Each year, the Ministry of Education provides stakeholders with a
Guide to Grants for Student Needs, which provides further details on education funding. Most of the funding school boards receive is tied to mandated class sizes and staffing ratios while other areas of the funding are “enveloped” and thus are restrictive in how they are used. As a result, it is likely the Board will have to commit further reserves in order to address priorities identified in the Multi-Year and Operating plans.
2021-2022 Budget Process and Timelines
The 2021-2022 budget process and timelines are summarized below, and details will be added to the
website as information becomes available:
View a breakdown of the the current year
Enrolment, Revenues and Expenses, which will form the basis for the 2021-2022 budget process.
2021-2022 Budget Consultation Survey
Please take a few minutes to share your ideas for the 2021-2022 budget by completing a short anonymous
survey.
The survey will be
open until March 5, 2021 at 4:00 pm
Complete the 2021-2022 Budget Consultation Survey