Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board Approves Budget for 2021-2022 School Year
BRANTFORD, ON – At the June 22, 2021 meeting, Trustees of the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board approved the 2021-22 School Year budget totalling $152 million dollars. The overall budget is comprised of the total operating budget of $147.7 million (an increase of $1.9 million from the 2020-21 revised budget) and the total capital budget of $4.3 million.
As enrolment continues an upward trend in both elementary and secondary, the district is expecting a total student enrolment increase of 1.7%.
The capital budget includes several facility renewals projects which are designed to create a safe and more comfortable learning environment for our students and staff including HVAC upgrades, site work, asphalt, roofing, and accessibility enhancements.
Information Technology remains a focus of this budget and includes highlights that directly impact students including upgrades for our secondary school labs and initial investments towards modernizing the technology classroom footprint in both elementary and secondary.
“The 2021-2022 budget did not come without its challenges, but as the Board continues to navigate through the unprecedented period of the COVID-19 pandemic, we remain committed to the health, well-being and safety of students, staff, and the broader community,” said Superintendent of Business & Treasurer, Scott Keys. “At this point time, this year’s budget has been prepared based on the Board continuing commitment to offer remote learning options for elementary and secondary students.”
The Board’s COVID-19 funding includes:
- $1.0 million for teachers, early childhood educators, educational assistants, caretakers and other staff to support physical distancing, enhanced cleaning and remote learning
- $214,930 to support school based mental health and special education
- $181,650 for enhanced health and safety measures in student transportation
- $119,397 to help re-engage students, including reading assessments
- $76,679 for to extend ventilation system operating times and replace filters
“As a Board of Trustees, we are pleased at the work that has been completed to deliver, despite the challenges presented in the 2020 -21 school year, a balanced budget. I am pleased that this will continue into our next budget year,” said Chair of the Board, Rick Petrella. “Ensuring health and safety measures for all students and staff, required from the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic, is a priority and we are pleased to see that staff were able to continue to commit to student learning, innovative programs, and enhanced staffing, while presenting a balanced budget.”
“Our Board has a history of operating with fiscal restraint and responsibility, and I’m pleased that has continued,” said Petrella. “We’ve managed to continue our commitment to our Strategic Plan, improve classrooms and learning spaces, support innovation and learning initiatives, and avoid permanent staff reductions. I see that as a win for everyone.”
The Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board has more than 10,000 students, 28 elementary schools, 3 secondary school, 2 alternative education settings, 1 virtual secondary school and 1 virtual elementary school across three counties (Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk) and the City of Brantford.
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For more information about this media release contact:
Scott Keys | Superintendent of Business and Treasurer | skeys@bhncdsb.ca
For more information about the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board contact:
Tracey Austin | Manager of Communications and Community Relations | 519-732-5282 | taustin@bhncdsb.ca
