The Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) passed its 2024-2025 fiscal year budget, featuring $716.9 million in operating expenditures. This budget is strategically designed to support the Board's commitment to student well-being, community involvement, innovative teaching practices, and the rich tradition of Catholic education.
Budget Highlights
- Total Budget: $716.9 million
- Operating Expenditures: $716.9 million
- Capital Expenditures: $55.5 million
- Additional Investments: $6.1 million focused on strategic priorities
- Drawdown from Accumulated Surplus Reserves: $5.8 million
Strategic Commitments and Spiritual Theme
Guided by the Board's Strategic Commitments: Be Community, Be Well, and Be Innovative, and its New Spiritual Theme: Open Doors, Build Bridges, Nourish New Beginnings, the budget reflects a commitment to providing a supportive, innovative, and community-focused educational environment.
Key Investments and Initiatives
Deep Learning and Outdoor Learning Spaces
A continued $7.5 million multi-year investment in outdoor learning spaces aims to integrate Deep Learning, mental health and well-being, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous knowledge and culture into a space for all to learn and grow.
Commitment to Catholic Education
The budget allocates $100,000 for Family Life Education resources, supporting chaplaincy leaders and religious education programs, and ensuring core Gospel values are integrated into school life.
Support for Indigenous Students and Community
New positions, including Indigenous Social Workers, Cultural Advisors, and Learning Partners, have been added to support the Board Action Plan and Indigenous Education Framework, along with a focus on numeracy, literacy, and STEAM initiatives.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI)
Funds are allocated for an Equity Consultant, Guidance Counsellor for international students, and additional educational assistants, among other roles, to support the EDI Framework.
Mental Health and Wellness
Investments continue in mental health professionals and resources, including a Mental Health Worker and a Social Worker, to support student well-being and student achievement.
Skilled Trades
Support for technological education and partnerships includes a Consultant for Partnerships and Grant Development and a $150,000 Technology Equipment Renewal Fund.
Reading and Math
On-going support for reading and math interventions includes dedicated Itinerant Reading Intervention teachers, a Math Learning Partner, and $100,000 for tutoring support services.
Innovation
A $200,000 investment in AI tools, professional development, and contracts ensures students and staff can safely leverage new technology.
Budget Process and Community Involvement
The budget process included planning, projection, review, recommendation, and adoption phases, with extensive community involvement. Schools consulted with their respective Catholic School Councils, and public input was sought through various partner meetings and budget input sessions.
Financial Overview
Salaries and benefits constitute 81.9% of the 2024-2025 Operating Budget expenditures, with total FTE staffing increasing by 261.3. Significant growth is forecasted, with a 3.4% increase in student enrolment.
Conclusion
The 2024-2025 budget aligns resource allocation with the OCSB's strategic priorities, ensuring innovative and relevant educational programming while providing faith-based learning conditions that foster community and well-being. This budget continues to put students first while addressing on-going financial pressures.
Quotes from Leadership
Tom D'Amico, Director of Education, said, "Our 2024-2025 budget is more than just numbers on a spreadsheet; it's a reflection of our commitment to nurturing the holistic development of our students. By prioritizing well-being, community engagement, and innovative practices, including Deep Learning and the humane use of technology, we ensure our students are well-equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world."
Mark D. Mullan, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, added, "This budget underscores our dedication to maintaining a financially sound and responsible approach while focusing on the core values of our Catholic education system. Parents can feel reassured that their children's education is supported by a comprehensive and thoughtfully crafted budget, reflecting our commitment to their child's spiritual well-being and success."
