WCPS Board approves division budget for 2024/25 school year

Wolf Creek Public Schools’ Board of Trustees has approved the Division Budget for the 2024-2025 school year, demonstrating once again their unwavering commitment to educational excellence and fiscal responsibility. The approved budget reflects a $287,903 deficit, which will be strategically covered by the Division's reserves.

"Despite the challenges, our focus remains steadfast on the well-being and success of our students and staff," said Board Chair Luci Henry. "Utilizing our reserves is a testament to our balanced approach to financial management while prioritizing the needs of our educational community."

This year's budget sees a welcome addition of approximately $2 million in funding from the Alberta Government. However, these additional funds have been counterbalanced by the continued cost increases in operational costs, staffing benefits and sharp increase in inflation, resulting in an operationally static budget.

The Board has proactively addressed the financial implications of the addition of Iron Ridge Secondary Campus, a new high school in Blackfalds, ensuring that the necessary resources are allocated to support a smooth integration into the Division's educational offerings in the 2024/25 school year. 

"The addition of Iron Ridge Secondary Campus represents a significant milestone in our commitment to providing top-tier educational facilities and opportunities for our students," said Henry.

The 2024-25 budget priorities reflect the Division's long-standing commitment to:

• Ensure the well being of students and staff remains a high priority.
• Achieve a balanced budget yet ensure there is a balanced approach.
• Classroom teachers and educational assistants are to remain a high priority to support students and must be maintained at the highest level the budget can accommodate.
• Ensure the Assurance Plan remains at the forefront in budget deliberations and decisions.
• Maintain an emphasis on professional development ensuring district expertise is leveraged.

"We understand the importance of each dollar and have meticulously planned our budget to ensure it aligns with our core values and educational priorities," said Henry. "Our commitment to inclusive education and student success remains strong, and we are confident that this budget will allow us to continue delivering exceptional educational experiences."

With the budget now approved by the Board, it will be submitted to Alberta Education for ministerial approval, as per standard procedure.