WINDSOR-ESSEX CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Roadmap for Success - Board budget focused on supporting students

Trustees were presented with a balanced $356M draft budget for the 2026-27 school year that's based on increased enrollment and focused on student success.

"Families continue to demonstrate their trust in us by enrolling their children in our schools," said Board Chair Lisa Soulliere. "With that increased enrollment comes increased funding, which allows us to invest further in key priorities for our students: innovative programs, improved academic outcomes, faith formation, positive mental health, and supports for students with special education needs."

The draft budget - which will be back before the Board of Trustees for final approval on June 16 - is based on enrollment projections of 23,250 pupils, an increase of 325 students from 2025-26 budget estimates. With about two thirds of education funding based on enrollment, this equates to an increase in grant revenue of about $3.8M.

"Our Catholic school board's administration continues to demonstrate prudent fiscal responsibility while remaining true to our core responsibilities," said Director of Education Emelda Byrne. "This budget provides us with a clear roadmap for the 2026-27 school year, and it provides us with the financial resources and flexibility to focus on our most important priority: our students."

Total estimated revenue for the 2026-27 fiscal year is $356.3M as compared to $348.6M for 2025-26, an increase of $7.7M. The budget projects an accumulated surplus of $32.3M at year-end, $17.2M of which is forecasted to be unrestricted and available for use by the board.

Staffing is the largest expenditure for the board and comprises about 80 percent of the budget. Total estimated expenditures for salaries and benefits are $281.6M compared to $279.1M for last year. Classroom teacher increases of 18 full-time equivalent positions are due to increased enrollment, as well as 25 non-teaching positions including educational assistants, child and youth workers, and school administrators.