Catholic Board Approves 2006-2007 Budget

Media Release

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At a special Board meeting on August 29, 2006, the Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board approved its 2006-2007 Budget of $38,952,613. Trustees were updated on the Board’s fiscal position by senior staff.

Many Boards throughout Ontario, and particularly in Northern Ontario, have been adversely affected by the unexpected changes made to this year’s funding model. Northern Boards have experienced a significant reduction in those grants which specifically address their unique circumstances.

The Board was able to reduce the amount required to be drawn from financial reserves by 50% compared to last year’s requirement, through a responsible program of expenditure control and cost cutting, while minimizing the impact on programs to students. Further cost cutting measures were limited however, due to the unusually late release of the Grants for Student Needs. Over time, the challenge will be to continue to balance fiscal realities with student outcomes.

“Some very careful decisions that will affect programs and services await boards in the coming year unless the Ministry addresses some of the fiscal pressures being faced as a result of these changes,” said Don Houle, Board Chair. “However, the Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board has taken the most responsible approach to dealing with [its] fiscal position.”

Director of Education, Anna-Marie Bitonti, said the Board’s goal “continues to be the balancing of future operating budgets without relying on one-time savings, while at the same time reflecting the Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board’s strategic direction and enabling it to achieve its ends.”

The 2006-2007 Budget reflects the Board’s commitment to providing a high quality Catholic education delivered through a variety of programs and services which focus on continued student achievement and success.

For additional information, please contact Donald Houle, Chair of the Board, or Anna Marie Bitonti, Director of Education at 705-472-1201.

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