Clearview Public Schools Spring budget for 2023-2024 approved

ECA Review/Submitted

During the May 31 meeting, the Board of Trustees approved the projected spring budget for the upcoming academic year of 2023-2024. The board members have estimated that the enrollment figures will remain consistent with the previous year, with an estimated 2,379 students expected to be enrolled.

The budget outlines an in-year deficit of $721,341 for the upcoming academic year. Keeping stakeholders and the community involved in the decision-making process was important when determining the budget.

“It was important to continue our strong consultations with key stakeholders. During the process, numerous consultations and information sessions were held with trustees, school councils, school principals and senior leaders, including community meetings at each of our schools,” said Peter Neale, Associate Superintendent.

“All decisions that needed to be made were done with input from our leaders and communities. School principals have prepared their staffing and expenditure plans for 2023-24.

This has been done with the board’s full confidence that the planning ensures the best for our students and schools, and the board has approved the budget on this basis.”

Any funds not utilized during the 2022-2023 academic year will be used in the 2023-2024 school year. Facilities Services, in particular, will rely on instructional supplemental funding.

For the upcoming academic year, they will receive $276,000 from the 2022-2023 enrollment increase and reserves, along with a reserve drawdown of $175,000.

The projected ending operating reserve balance for the 2023-2024 academic year is estimated at $931,782. This amount falls within the allowable limit, not exceeding $1,650,000.

Article published by East Central Alberta Review