GUELPH – The Wellington Catholic District School Board has approved a budget that strives to minimize the impact at the classroom level and ensure excellence in faith formation, learning and achievement.
The 2019/20 budget was approved for final submission by trustees on June 3.
This was a challenging budget planning cycle, officials say.
Through the collaboration of departments and the reorganization of positions, expenditures were decreased proportionately to the reduction in grant funding.
The 2019-20 budget includes total expenditures of $104.7 million.
This budget represents a 1.9 per cent or $2 million decrease from the 2018-19 revised estimates.
The board has implemented operating efficiencies and expenditure reductions to offset revenue reductions and increased costs.
Board chair, Marino Gazzola, affirmed the work of senior administration.
“We were able to approve a balanced budget due to the tireless work and commitment of our staff,” he said.
“Their collaborative efforts and historical commitment to fiscal responsibility have resulted in a balanced budget that allows us to continue to prioritize student learning and well-being.”
Director Tamara Nugent added, “We are proud to serve our students in an inclusive and engaging learning environment. We needed to make some difficult choices in order to most effectively steward our resources. Retirements have helped to mitigate the impact on our employees.
“We continue to provide specialized programs such as the Primary Years International Baccalaureate, Specialist High Skills Major programs and support for English language learners, full day kindergarten and special education.”
The approved budget will be submitted to the Ministry of Education by the June 30 deadline.
