At the June 22nd Regular Meeting of the Board, the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) Board of Trustees approved a balanced 2026-2027 budget of $677,740,260, an increase of $10.9 million from the previous year.
The Board’s operating budget meets all Ministry of Education funding regulations and is fully compliant with legislated requirements, including guidelines governing how specific funds must be used. Developed through a comprehensive planning process, the budget aligns financial resources with DSBN’s Strategic Plan and priorities, reflecting continued investment in student achievement, well-being and system sustainability while responding to ongoing financial pressures.
Enrolment remains steady, bringing the Board’s total enrolment to 43,519 learners. This has been carefully considered in planning decisions, including a student-focused approach to staffing with resources directed to where they are needed most. Informed by enrolment, program requirements and school-based needs, staffing investments have been made to maintain strong classroom supports and ensure students have access to responsive and engaging learning environments.
Additional investments have been made to enhance supports for students with special education needs and strengthen student mental health services. These investments will strengthen school-based supports, enhance access to timely interventions and ensure the system continues to respond effectively and compassionately.
“The balanced budget reflects DSBN’s continued commitment to providing meaningful learning connected to students’ interests and future goals,” said Stacy Veld, Associate Director of Education, Corporate Services and Treasurer. “From expanding Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) hospitality programs in our secondary schools to investing more than $2 million in information technology infrastructure, we are strengthening the learning experience in our schools.”
“At the same time, we are prioritizing our facilities, with over $124 million dedicated to renovations, major system upgrades and the construction of three new elementary schools opening in September 2027, ensuring students continue to learn in safe, modern environments that support their success.”
While most of the Board’s funding is generated by student enrolment, which remains stable, the DSBN continues to face cost pressures across key areas, including transportation, sick leave and supports for students with complex needs. The Board continues to review operating practices and make strategic adjustments to ensure fiscal responsibility while maintaining supports for students and schools.
“Trustees play an important role in ensuring public funds are used responsibly and in ways that directly support students,” said Kate Baggott, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Approving a balanced budget means carefully weighing priorities and making thoughtful decisions. This budget reflects that work and our shared commitment to accountability, transparency and student success.”
“Grounded in careful planning, detailed analysis and a strong understanding of both system needs and funding parameters, the 2026-2027 budget reflects our ongoing commitment to making thoughtful decisions that support student achievement and well-being,” said Kelly Pisek, DSBN Chief Executive Officer.
“We have worked to align staffing, programming and operational decisions with projected enrolment while managing cost pressures and ensuring compliance with Ministry requirements. Within the Ministry’s funding framework, we have focused on maintaining strong supports in our classrooms and schools, ensuring that students continue to have access to meaningful learning opportunities, high-quality programs and the services they need to succeed. The result is a balanced financial plan that supports stability and sustainability across the system.”
DSBN’s fiscal year runs from September 1 to August 31. Each June, the budget for the upcoming school year is presented and approved at the Regular Meeting of the Board.