SD57 given conservative outlook into preliminary annual budget

Budget talks are underway for School District 57, as Trustees got a look into the draft 2026-27 annual budget.

During last night’s (Tuesday) public board meeting, a presentation was given breaking down what spending would look like for the School District, and what factors would be faced, along with the affects.

A projected enrollment decline of around 150 students was one of those factors, which Secretary Treasurer Lynda Minnabarriet said won’t necessarily affect revenue negatively.

“We receive a certain amount per student, so our per student amount total will go down, however we are projecting an increase in the number of students with unique needs, and those amounts are going up.”

“Overall, the student enrollment piece is down, but the student supplements are up. So we are projecting an increase.”

Another factor mentioned during the meting was general cost increases for things like gas and technology, something Minnabarriet said will need to be included if there are any increases in part of the budget, and account for what they know.

As it stands, the preliminary budget shows the School District will be dipping into its surplus as expenses look to exceed overall revenue, primarily driven by one time purchases.

She said moving forward, they will want to be cautious in the funding, protect services students and staff need, and make sure the Board isn’t put in a position where in future years of potential financial challenges, they don’t make drastic increases.

Minnabarriet noted the budget being fairly similar to last year while being adjusted for student decline.

The School District is taking in public input, with ways to do so on its website, and is open until April 22nd.

The final budget presentation and approval process is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12th.

Other items discussed at the meeting include the 2026-27 Capital Bylaw, and an update on the School District strategic plan.

The full meeting agenda can be found here.