Red Deer Catholica Regional Schools has ended the 2024/25 fiscal with a $2.7 million surplus. (94.5 Rewind Radio/Jordan Rein)

By Jordan Rein

$120 Million Budget

Red Deer Catholic posts $2.7M surplus but warns of rising costs

Dec 10, 2025 | 3:13 PM

Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools (RDCRS) says it has ended the 2024–25 fiscal year in a strong financial position, posting a $2.7-million surplus on its $120 million budget.

Trustees approved the audited financial statements on Nov. 25, noting the improvement was driven by higher-than-expected revenues, including an increase in international student enrolment and stronger investment income.

The surplus raises the division’s accumulated operating reserves to $2.85 million, representing 2.73 per cent of its budget.

That places the division well within the province’s recommended reserve range of one to six per cent, a benchmark meant to support financial stability while ensuring savings are not excessive.

Despite the positive year-end position, the division says it continues to face rising costs.

$120 Million Budget

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Utilities, insurance and supports for students with inclusive needs are all becoming more expensive, and the opening of a new school has added operational pressures that are not fully funded.

To help shape future budget decisions, the board will hold community engagement sessions in February 2026 to gather input from parents, students and staff on priorities for the 2026–27 school year.

Details about the sessions and the audited financial statements are available on the division’s website.