Peel District School Board approves 2024-2025 budget

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The local public school board has its financial plan ready for the next year.

On July 3, the Peel District School Board (PDSB) announced its 2024-2025 budget had been approved. The budget was approved at a July 2 board meeting.

In a media release, PDSB communications staff said the budget was made with the input of school council members, parents, staff, trustees, students and community members. 

“Together, their input set priorities like boosting support for vulnerable students, promoting equity initiatives, and ensuring schools are safe and productive places to learn, even with rising costs,” they said. 

The release said in its next fiscal year, the PDSB will be investing in student technology and educational innovation projects to support and enhance teaching and learning in Peel classrooms. 

It also notes the PDSB will be hiring additional staff for special education, allocating more funding for mental health and social workers, and hiring extra resource teachers to support students' needs, health, and well-being.

The PDSB's release said funding in the 2024-2025 budget has been allocated for instructional and graduation coaches to support all students, including Black and Indigenous students, to boost graduation rates.

“With all these measures in place, PDSB is gearing up for a successful new school year, focusing on student achievement while managing finances responsibly,” the release reads.

PDSB chair David Green said he's excited about the 2024-2025 budget and called on the Province to prioritize public education.

“Let's persist in creating impactful programs and partnerships that offer real-world experiences for students in Peel,” said Green. “Adequate funding is crucial for student confidence and success, and addressing chronic underfunding is imperative… the Ministry of Education needs to act decisively to bridge these gaps.”

PDSB Director of Education Rashmi Swarup said the 2024-205 budget is a responsible one that promotes student success. 

“The Board's student-focused budget for 2024-2025 not only reaffirms our dedication to fostering positive and inclusive learning environments but also underscores our commitment to fiscal responsibility while prioritizing student achievement and excellence in the classroom,” said Swarup.