School boards across Durham Region are inviting residents to provide feedback as they begin planning their 2026–2027 education budgets, citing ongoing financial challenges and funding pressures.
The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) has launched an online survey to gather input from parents, students, and community members. The consultation is part of the board’s efforts to address financial concerns while ensuring that education services continue to meet the needs of the community.
According to the board, the education sector has been facing significant financial strain in recent years, with increased costs and limited funding creating challenges for long-term planning. The Ministry of Education closely monitors the financial health of school boards, particularly their operating reserves.
For DCDSB, maintaining a reserve of at least two per cent of its annual operating allocation — approximately $6.2 million — is considered low risk. However, at the end of the 2024–2025 fiscal year, the board reported a surplus of $3.4 million, placing it in the medium-risk category.
As a result, the board is now working on a three-year budget recovery plan aimed at restoring financial stability. Officials say community input will play a critical role in identifying priorities and making informed decisions about where resources should be allocated.
In a message to families, the board emphasized the importance of careful financial planning, noting that balancing fiscal responsibility with student needs remains a key objective. The survey allows residents to share their views on programs, services, and spending priorities.
The online consultation will remain open until March 31, 2026, giving community members time to participate. A draft budget is expected to be presented to the Finance Committee on May 19.
Meanwhile, the Durham District School Board (DDSB) is also encouraging public involvement in its budget planning process. Residents will have the opportunity to provide feedback through upcoming meetings, including a session where members of the public can present deputations to the Education Finance Committee on April 13.
The DDSB will also present its draft budget for consideration during a meeting scheduled for May 12.
Both boards stress that public participation is essential in shaping decisions that impact classrooms, staffing, and student services across Durham Region. Budget decisions influence everything from educational programs to support services, making community input a valuable part of the process.
As Durham Region continues to grow, school boards face increasing demands to balance quality education with financial sustainability. By inviting residents to participate, both DCDSB and DDSB aim to ensure that future budgets reflect the priorities and needs of the communities they serve.
