York public school board approves $1.6B budget for 2023-24, focus on literacy, special education, mental health

Budget includes projected deficit of $12.9 million

Yorkregion.com
July 6, 2023
Laura Broadley

York Region District School Board trustees have approved a 2023-24 operating budget of $1.6 billion.

The budget contains a projected deficit of $12.9 million and includes a “moderate use of reserves” in order to achieve a balanced budget and comply with the Ministry of Education's requirements, according to YRDSB.

“The budget reflects an alignment with our priorities as a school board, the feedback we heard from our school community and our commitment to offer high quality education,” said board chair Ron Lynn.

The budget focuses on early literacy support, supports for students with special education needs, destreaming and mental health.

Highlights of the budget include: $1.6 million to hire permanent staff, including social workers, psychological and occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists; continued support for Indigenous education programs; and $600,000 for staffing and resources to support multiple-language learners.

“The 2023-2024 budget includes important investments in programs and services designed to meet the diverse needs of our learners,” said Vidyia Maharaj, associate director and chief financial officer. “Our budget process reflects our commitment as an organization to model ethical leadership, listen to the voices in our community and be transparent and fiscally responsible.”

More information can be found on the YRDSB website.