Calgary’s two biggest school boards have submitted their 2020-2021 operating budgets to Alberta Education, even though neither know what the fall return to classes will look like.
The Calgary Board of Education’s $1.4-billion 2020-21 operating budget has been approved by the Board of Trustees, following a week of deliberations.
The money will go toward funding more than 128,000 students in about 250 schools, including three that are due to open next year.
The budget approval comes in the midst of spending questions from the department of education, after an independent audit of the school board’s financial situation.
According to board chair Marilyn Dennis, the budget prioritizes students and classrooms, and is in line with the province’s new funding framework.
“We are committed to strong, vibrant, inclusive school communities where all students have the opportunity to achieve their potential,” Dennis said in a news release.
“There will be changes to some of our programs and services, but we will continue to strive for the best outcomes for our students.”
Calgary Catholic School Board drawing on reserves
On Wednesday, the Calgary Catholic School Board said its trustees had also approved its budget, using reserves to help bring it to balance.
The CCSD is budgeting $613.5 million in revenues and $618.4 million in expenditures for the year. The board said it’s facing a $4.9-million shortfall and used money from capital transactions along with $1.7 million from reserves to fill the gap.
The use of reserve funds still needs ministry approval.
“The 2020-2021 budget includes spend reductions impacting all areas of our operations,” said chief superintendent Bryan Szumlas.
“However, we have ensured the reductions in board, administration and instructional support are at a steeper rate, to lessen the impact felt in our classrooms. While we are facing external pressures, the district will continue to prioritize high-quality, faith-based teaching and learning.”
Trustee Linda Wellman said it’s a responsible budget that takes into consideration the worst case scenario, with what is known at this point in time.
“This is a good news budget. As good as it can be given all the realities that we’re having to face right now,” Wellman said.
A contingency has been set aside for any issues arising from the pandemic. The budget takes into consideration all three scenarios — full return, partial return, or online classes — for the resumption of classes this fall by factoring in 30 additional teachers and personal protective equipment.
Budget reserves sit at $14.1 million, representing 2.3% of annual spending.
CBE bus fee changes
The CBE also recently announced new busing fees for the 2020-21 year, which will see a hike in transportation costs per student.
While the budget has been passed, it’s still not known what the fall will look like and whether students will even be in classrooms again.
The board is working with the provincial government and health officials to examine three possibilities for the fall; having students back in schools, having students back in the desks but with different restrictions and precautions, or not having students back at all and continuing with online learning that began in the spring.
“The approved 2020-21 budget assumes a normal start-up. Should changes be required due to COVID-19, the CBE will adjust as necessary,” the board said. “This approach is consistent with other metro school divisions.
“The CBE continues to work very closely with Alberta Education and other metro school jurisdictions to ensure that school start up is compliant with provincial direction. The safety of students and staff remains the CBE’s highest priority.”
— With files from Brenda Neufeld, Global News Radio 770 CHQR
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