YRDSB uses reserve for post-pandemic budget

$4-million reduction in school budgets

yorkregion.com
July 7, 2021
Irene Wong

Amid the pandemic-induced enrolment decline, York Region District School Board has a $39-million in-year deficit which has lead to a motion to use 1.3 per cent from reserves.

At the June 30 Board meeting, York Region District School Board approved a balanced 2021-22 budget of $1,591,532,900 as recovery from the global COVID19 pandemic continues.

Board Chair Cynthia Cordova said the budget represents a fair allocation of resources during a period of decreased enrolment.

“The 2021-2022 budget was a difficult one because of the enrolment decline as a result of the pandemic and reflects some tough decisions,” said Chief Financial Officer Vidyia Maharaj.

To help reduce the almost $39 million in-year deficit, the board has made the decisions to reduce central administration budgets by close to $5 million, as well as to reduce school budgets by $4 million.

In addition, the board has also approved a motion to use 1.3 per cent from reserves to assist in balancing the budget, subject to approval by the Ministry of Education.

Trustee and budget committee Chair David Sherman said the board has incorporated public input from over 700 parents, students and community members in planning for financial vision and prioritize front line resources for classrooms and students.