The Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) recently passed their new budget for the 2024-2025 school year, which included a $7.6 million deficit. Originally facing a much larger shortfall of $30 million, staff and trustees were able to reduce it through careful planning and adjustments to the budget. The deficit was driven by unfunded statutory benefit costs, special education expenses, and costs for staff absences. The board made sure that the deficit remained compliant with the Ministry of Education’s requirements, which state that it must be less than or equal to one percent of operating revenue.
During the meeting where the budget was discussed, many trustees expressed frustration with the Ministry of Education for not providing enough funding. They claimed that the province had shorted the board $30 million, making it difficult for them to balance the budget and provide for the needs of students. Despite the challenges, trustees emphasized the importance of making the most of the resources they have and ensuring that they do right by the students. They also expressed concerns about the Ministry’s expectations regarding the board’s reserves and compliance with budget requirements.
In response to the accusations of underfunding, the Ministry of Education denied any wrongdoing and stated that education is being funded at the highest levels in Ontario’s history. They highlighted the additional funding that the TVDSB received for the upcoming school year, including support for special education needs. However, trustees like Lori-Ann Pizzolato believe that more people need to hold the province accountable for their actions and ensure that they fulfill their financial obligations to organizations like the TVDSB.
To bring the deficit in line with Ministry standards, the TVDSB made several budget cuts, including leaving 58 elementary school and 24 high school teaching positions unfilled. Additionally, early childhood educator and speech and psychology services positions were also cut. The special education budget will be reduced by nearly $1 million, with cuts in spending on security equipment, school budgets, instructional supplies, printing, photocopying, and field trips. However, the board assured that no current employees would lose their jobs, and some may be reassigned to different vacant positions within the organization.
The TVDSB is the largest school board in the region and the fourth largest in Ontario, serving over 85,000 students and employing more than 14,000 staff members. Despite the financial challenges they face, the board is dedicated to providing quality education and support to students while working within the constraints of their budget. The ongoing efforts to balance the budget and make necessary cuts reflect the commitment of the TVDSB to fulfilling their educational mission despite financial setbacks.
