Our Balanced Budget
In June 2025, the OCSB approved a balanced $803.5 million budget for the 2025–2026 school year, making significant new investments to support a growing student population and advance our commitments to student achievement, well-being, and innovative, faith-filled learning.
With enrolment projected to climb by 2,049 students, this budget directs resources where they are needed most: the classroom. It introduces $16.8 million in strategic spending to enhance student support, expand skilled trades and outdoor learning, and ensure the responsible integration of new technologies like artificial intelligence. The budget is balanced with a planned use of $5.6 million from reserves, an intentional investment in student success.
This budget is a direct response to the needs of our growing Catholic school community and a reflection of our values in action. It ensures that as we welcome more families, we are also strengthening the supports that help every student thrive. We are investing in the educators, support staff, and learning environments that define an OCSB education.
Mark D. Mullan, Chairperson, OCSB
2025-2026 Operating Budget
$803,496,000
By Category of Expenditure
Key Investments and Initiatives
The budget aligned with the Board’s Strategic Commitments: Be Community, Be Well, Be Innovative. It was built on a foundation of responsible financial stewardship and highlighted the Board’s commitment to investing in people. Over 81% of all spending was dedicated to the salaries and benefits of the staff who directly supported, taught, and cared for our students every day.
Supporting Student Achievement and Well-Being
Investing in Student Support
The budget prioritized direct classroom support, including the hiring of 118 new teachers and 70 permanent Educational Assistants. It also added specialized staff in areas such as literacy and numeracy, mental health, and multilingual support, ensuring more responsive, student-centred support across schools.
$2 Million for Skilled Trades
The first phase of a multi-year investment expanded hands-on learning, built industry partnerships, and renewed equipment for high-demand career pathways.
$2 Million for Inclusion and Well-Being
A multi-year project deepened support for student mental health and staff wellness and expanded equity initiatives, ensuring every school was a place of belonging.
Continued Focus on Reading and Math
Increased funding for dedicated reading intervention teachers and tutoring services reflected our commitment to strengthening foundational literacy and numeracy skills.
Continued Investment in Faith-Based Resources
The introduction of an elementary Religious Education Consultant supported elementary Faith Mentors and included an investment in resources for the religious education curriculum.
Enhancing Learning Environments
$8.4 Million for Portables
To support our growing student population, temporary air-conditioned portables were added until new permanent classrooms could be built.
$1.3 Million to Complete Outdoor Learning Spaces
The final phase of a $7.5 million, multi-year initiative integrated outdoor learning and environmental stewardship at every school.
$1 Million Annually (Over Three Years) for Inclusive Play Structure Renewal
Funding supported the replacement of aging and non-accessible play structures to ensure safer, more inclusive outdoor spaces.
$475,000 for Responsible AI and Innovation
This investment gave students access to safe, vetted AI tools and supported educators in using these tools effectively to enhance learning.