School board balances budget but draws $1.1 million from reserves

News Release
RRDSB

At the June 1, 2010 Board Meeting, the Rainy River District School Board approved the 2010-2011 balanced budget of $46,814,466. The budget process priority was to prepare a fiscally responsible budget that promotes programs which support achievement for all students.
One of the budget challenges this year was the 2.2% decrease in enrolment from the 2009-10 budget, which results in reduced grant revenue. The funding model also provided challenges with enrolment stability funding being reduced in a number of grants. There were Ministry grant constraints in technology, transportation, learning resources and special education.
“Although these challenges were present, the approved balanced budget was a collaborative process that remained student-focused and aligned with the strategic plan,” said Superintendent of Business, Laura Mills.
Student achievement continues to be the goal of the Rainy River District School Board. The new budget will allow the Board to support the new Early Learning Program at North Star Community School, and to support existing programs such as, Full Day Senior Kindergarten, Reading Recovery, Student Achievement Teachers, and aboriginal education programming.
The Board will draw $1,115,069 from reserves to support previously approved initiatives such as, Later Literacy Education Assistants, Aboriginal Immersion, Assistive Technology Support, Secondary Curriculum Coaches, Student Success Coach and Student Achievement Teacher Coach.
“This budget will further student achievement and close gaps in achievement. At the same time, it responds to financial pressures in the face of declining enrolment and difficult economic conditions,” stated Board Chair, Dan Belluz. “I thank Superintendent of Business Laura Mills, staff, trustees, and school councils for the focus, feedback and efforts they devoted to the process.”
“District-wide, our focus continues to be on enhancing opportunities for student achievement, maintaining safe and supportive learning and working environments, and in continuing to foster open, two-way communication in the communities we serve,” said Director of Education, Heather Campbell. “I am confident that the system will move forward effectively with the budget allocations approved by our trustees.”