HSCDSB Budget 2026–2027
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HSCDSB Budget Feedback 26/27

We invite you to share your ideas, provide feedback, and collaborate with us as we plan for the upcoming school year. Developing the annual school board budget is one of the most important ways we support student success. Our goal is to ensure that every dollar is used responsibly to create safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environments for all students.

The strategic directions in our Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) and the goals outlined in our Student Achievement Plan guide how we pursue our mission and vision in Catholic education. Our budget plays a critical role in turning these plans into action and ensuring we can accomplish what we set out to do.

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How the Budget Works
School board budgets are carefully developed each year to align with student needs, Board priorities, and provincial requirements. The HSCDSB’s main source of funding comes from Core Education Funding grants provided by the Province of Ontario. This funding is determined using a provincial formula based on factors such as:

  • Student enrolment
  • Special education needs
  • School and facility requirements
  • Transportation and geographic considerations

Mandated class sizes and staffing ratios mean that a significant portion of this funding is already committed. In addition, many areas of funding are provided through specific “envelopes,” meaning those funds can only be used for their intended purpose. A smaller portion of funding may also come from grants, partnerships, and local initiatives.

Funding is allocated to support key areas, including:

  • Classroom instruction and learning resources
  • Student supports (e.g., mental health, special education)
  • Staffing (teachers, educational assistants, support staff)
  • School operations and maintenance
  • Transportation
  • Programs and extracurricular opportunities

School boards must follow strict provincial guidelines to ensure funds are used appropriately and responsibly.

 

Frequently Asking Questions

Not entirely. While boards have some flexibility, much of the funding is restricted by provincial requirements, including class size regulations and targeted funding envelopes.

Funding restrictions, rising costs, and changing student needs can require careful choices to balance priorities while maintaining quality education.

The budget is directly aligned with the MYSP, ensuring resources are focused on achieving our strategic goals and improving student outcomes.

Key Documents

To support transparency and understanding, the following documents are available: