Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board Trustees, sitting as the Budget Committee, this evening approved a balanced budget for the next school year of $549,127,887, and a capital budget in the amount of $46,398,243.
“This has been a very challenging budget year that has resulted in a number of difficult choices. As trustees, we are committed to being responsible and prudent financial managers, and we balance that obligation with supporting the services and programs we know are crucial for student success,” says Paul Brown, chairperson, Budget Committee. “This year, as we do every year, we have been focused in our efforts with administration throughout the budget-setting process to ensure student and classroom needs are our number one funding priority.”
In approving the budget, trustees noted a number of areas where a gap remains between funding and costs.
“While we continue to adopt efficiencies and service model changes in a number of areas, including transportation and special education specifically, long-standing and expanding gaps between funding and the on-the-ground costs of service delivery continue to expand,” says Brown.
“In the best interests of our students and staff, we will continue to advocate for a fully-funded public education system that meets real world needs.”
Capital Budget
The approved budget also includes a capital budget of over $46 million. Capital projects are brought forward to the board for approval on an individual basis, with funds dedicated to capital building/school improvement projects. Capital project highlights for next year include funding investments for construction of Northglen Orchard Public School, new schools in Newcastle and Millbrook, as well as an addition for Murray Centennial Public School in Trenton.
Projects for 2025-2026 will also include program enhancements for students, as well as annual building renewals and improvements (lighting, window replacements, roof and boiler maintenance).
Other Budget Highlights
Approximately 80% of the approved budget is dedicated to supporting instructional and classroom expenses.
- over $78 million to support special education program delivery in schools.
- Board revenues are determined provincially based on elementary and secondary student enrolment. Total board enrolment for 2025-2026 is expected to be 35,386 students, including a decline of 380 students from 2024-2025.
Budget information is available at: www.kprschools.ca.
