The Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board (NPSC) has approved a balanced budget for the next school year.
The $68 million fiscal plan includes a 2.82% increase over last year.
“The balanced budget approved by our Board of Trustees for the upcoming school year reflects our commitment to excellence in governance and the responsible stewardship of resources focused on our students,” says Shawn Fitzsimmons, Chair of the Board. “It prioritizes the holistic development of our learners, enhances classroom supports, and ensures long-term financial sustainability – all aligned with our Board’s strategic ENDs.”
The board says with overall enrolment projected to remain relatively stable, increasing by less than 1% over last year, and notable growth anticipated at the secondary level, NPSC’s budget includes key investments designed to enhance student achievement and well-being across several priority areas. They include:
- Early Reading screening support in the Early Years (Kindergarten to Grade 3) program.
- Mathematics facilitator support in all schools.
- STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) resources for all schools, including land-based robotics kits.
- Skilled Trades and Technological Education offerings at St. Joseph-Scollard Hall, including a robotics program.
- Continued mental health and well-being supports and services in all schools.
- Continued integration of new Catholic education resources supporting the Family Life Education program, alongside continued Board chaplaincy support.
- Continued specialty program offerings for all intermediate students, such as Instrumental Music, Innovation Design and Technology, and Home Economics.
- Increased Special Education staffing levels.
- Increased Indigenous education staffing, including the addition of a Grade 7 – 12 Indigenous Graduation Coach and the continued role of a K – 8 Indigenous Education Special Assignment Teacher to support the integration of Indigenous perspectives and culture throughout the curriculum.
- Guidance and support for educators and students in the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in education.
- Continued support of parent engagement initiatives through the NPSC Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) and Catholic School Advisory Councils (CSAC).
- Expansion of the Hockey Canada Skills Academy program at St. Joseph-Scollard Hall, now entering its fourth successful year.
“We are grateful and excited that the 2025-2026 budget allows us to continue providing high quality programs and services that help our students thrive,” says Paula Mann, Director of Education. “These investments also enable the introduction of new resources to enhance learning while upholding the core values at the heart of Catholic education. As always, we remain committed to keeping students at the center of every decision we make – ensuring that each learner is supported, inspired, and empowered to reach their full potential.”
Officials say the budget has now been submitted to the Ministry of Education.
