Provincial Funding
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Learn more about your Calgary Catholic School District Board of Trustees!
The Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD) serves approximately 64,000 students in 118 schools and is the largest Catholic school district in Alberta. We are unique in that we represent the interests of over five municipalities which include rural, urban, and metro areas in Airdrie, Calgary, Chestermere, Cochrane, and Rocky View County. Since 2021, our district has experienced consistent and significant student growth. During this time, we have seen a 12 percent increase, approximately 6,800 students. In addition, CCSD has seen the number of students with complex needs grow significantly over the past few years. Approximately 20 percent of our students are English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners and approximately 20 percent of our students have significant diverse learning needs. These complex needs may include autism, significant dysregulation, cognitive disabilities, medical diagnoses, and mental health challenges. Since 2018, the district’s fixed costs have also increased more than 50 percent. Fixed costs include utilities, maintenance, insurance, carbon taxes, internet fees, etc., all of which are necessary to student learning.
In the face of these challenges, provincial funding per student has not increased since 2018. It is crucial that we receive appropriate and sustainable funding to accommodate rising costs. Without significant additional funding in Budget 2025, our district will be forced to make difficult decisions which will negatively impact the educational success of our students.
Did You Know?
- Alberta spends the least on its students. In 2023-2024, Alberta Education spent the lowest per student, roughly $10,000 compared to the Canadian provincial average of approximately $12,000.
- In the 2024-2025 operating budget, the CCSD’s operating costs will exceed $700 million. Due to the increase in costs, the budget forecasts an operating deficit of $21.5 million.
- The deficit in the approved 2024-2025 operating budget was funded using $18.6 million of the CCSD’s reserves. The $18.6 million is equivalent to 215 teachers.
- Government funding accounts for 95 percent of the district’s revenue and is based on student enrolment. Just over 80 percent of the district’s costs relate directly to student learning.
- Per provincial government requirements, the CCSD must maintain an accumulated operating surplus to cover any potential funding shortfalls. However, in recent years, the district has elected to use our savings to fund budget shortfalls. This approach is not sustainable as our savings are at the minimum level required by the government.
We are grateful for the support of the Alberta government. As trustees, we are actively working to inform and educate the government about the district’s financial pressures and the challenges that our students are facing. It is crucial that they are made aware that adequate and sustainable funding is needed to fully address our financial challenges and to ensure the long-term success and well-being of our students. Your Board of Trustees has been working diligently to advocate and shine a light on the areas in which our schools require additional support. Learn more about our efforts by reviewing our advocacy booklet at cssd.ab.ca/advocacy. You can also reach out to your Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) to express concerns regarding education and funding. MLAs are your elected provincial government representative. They represent your needs and wants and work with other MLAs to enact policies that meet your needs. Visit the Legislative Assembly of Alberta website to find your MLA and their contact information.
Happy March everyone. May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
