JULY 6, 2021 - BARRIE, ON: On June 28th, the Board of Trustees for the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB) passed a balanced operating budget for the 2021-2022 school year in the amount of $287,576,334. The Board also approved a 1% operating reserve. 

The Board’s funding is based on enrolment as well as special funds allocated from the Ministry of Education called Grants for Student Needs (GSNs). The Board projects that enrollment will drop slightly in the coming school year, from 22,003 students to 21,916. 

The budget reflects the board’s ability to respond to post-COVID needs and the potential for additional COVID supports within the schools, in anticipation of the return to in-person learning.

“We certainly want our students back in their classrooms, with teachers and friends, but it is paramount that we do so in a safe manner, following the health guidelines provided to us,” said Joe Zerdin, Board Chair. “We want to be able to respond to all COVID protocols that will keep our staff and students safe, but at this point, we aren't sure what those will be, so that adds an extra layer of uncertainty while preparing this budget.” 

“I was happy to see that mental health remains a priority, and that our board can sustain the level of support that is required to address issues resulting from the past extraordinary and challenging 18 months. I’m confident that we will be abundantly ready to safely welcome students back to in-person learning for the next school year.” 

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Media Contact: Pauline Stevenson, Manager of Communications and Strategic Initiatives 705.722.3555 ext., 229 [email protected]