GUELPH – The Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) has passed the 2025-2026 school year budget.
In a news release, the UGDSB says the budget is balanced and compliant with Ministry of Education requirements.
“We have approved a balanced budget for 2025-26 that remains true to our Multi-Year Plan goals and continues the direction given by the board two years ago with respect to funding reading and mathematics supports beyond what is funded by the government. This was accomplished through the thoughtful, strategic work of staff, paring non-classroom expenses to the bone,” said Chair of the Board, Ralf Mesenbrink. “Some of these expense reductions, however, are not sustainable year after year.”
Trustees approved an Operating Budget of $499.9 million. Operating Revenue amount includes $489.3 million in Core Education Funding and $10.6 million in Other Revenue sources. The 2025-26 Capital Budget was approved at $49.7 million.
Of the total revenue, the news release says the $417.5 million is allocated to instruction related expenses such as classroom staffing and learning resources, $42.9 million to school facilities, $26.6 million to school transportation, and $12.8 million to central service departments.
“This budget is more than a balancing of revenue and expenses for another year—it’s a commitment to staying focused on our priorities,” said Director of Education Peter Sovran. “It keeps classroom-based learning, student outcomes, and enriched educational experiences at the center of everything we do as we work together to realize Vision 2026+.”
“This balanced budget carries risks. Reductions in some service areas mean our ability to replace non-critical assets may be delayed, response times for staff supports could lengthen, and innovation initiatives might slow,” Sovran said.
The full budget document will be posted on the UGDSB website.
