Durham Catholic District School Board Approves Balanced 2026-2027 Budget Focused on Student Success
The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) Trustees approved a balanced $339.7 million operating budget for the 2026-2027 school year that reflects a continued focus on student achievement, well-being and faith formation. The balanced budget aligns with Ministry of Education requirements and supports the board’s Inspire 2026 strategic plan.
Guided by our Catholic values, a key focus of the 2026-2027 budget is fiscal responsibility and stewardship, ensuring resources are managed carefully, transparently, and in alignment with long-term financial sustainability. In addition to meeting current operational needs, the budget includes a contribution of approximately $1.1 million to the board's operating accumulated surplus, continuing progress toward a multi-year recovery plan to rebuild reserves and achieve a low-risk financial position, from the current medium-risk category.
A vast majority of the board's resources continue to be directed toward student learning, ensuring that funding is focused where it has the greatest impact: classrooms, supporting student well-being, and providing safe, welcoming school environments. Through careful planning and disciplined financial management, we are ensuring both immediate impact and long-term resilience.
Total operating revenue for the 2026-2027 fiscal year is estimated at $339.7 million, an increase of $7.8 million from the previous year. Total planned operating expenses are aligned with the operating revenue, and staffing costs represent the largest share of expenditures at $294.6 million for salaries, benefits and supply staffing, which is 86.7% of the budget.
The budget also supports capital investments totalling $77.6 million, including new school construction, school renewal projects and technology upgrades to accommodate growth and maintain safe, modern learning environments.
The budget includes targeted investments that reflect community priorities identified through consultation with students, families, staff, parish and community members.