Red Deer Public Schools reports $1.8 million deficit in approved budget

“This budget reflects our continued focus on student success,” said Board Chair Nicole Buchanan. “While school divisions continue to face increasing costs and financial pressures, we have worked hard to protect staffing, classroom supports and programs that directly impact students.”

The division expects to receive approximately $1.8 million in provincial funding, compared with the current school year, but rising operational and staffing costs are putting pressure on the budget.

Some of the factors include enrolment uncertainty, higher cost for utilities, insurance, materials and supplies, and salary and benefit increases for employees.

Employee costs will rise for the fourth-straight year with an increase of $596 per Classified and CUPE employee and $908 per Certificated employee.

“One important decision we made as a Board was to keep comprehensive fees unchanged for middle and high school students,” Buchanan added. “We recognize many families are managing increased costs at home, and we wanted to avoid adding further financial strain.”

However, Red Deer Public Schools will continue to invest in students with priorities such as maintaining staffing levels, supporting the newly-formed Classroom Complexity Teams, supporting dual credit opportunities, programs of choice, literacy and numeracy support, among others.

“This budget allows us to continue supporting students in meaningful ways while remaining fiscally responsible,” said Chad Erickson, Superintendent. “We remain committed to providing strong learning environments and ensuring students have access to the supports and opportunities they need to succeed.”

by rdnewsNOW staff

Red Deer Public Schools reports $1.8 million deficit in approved budget

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