Media Release
Excellence in education and fiscal responsibility are two main features of the 2016–2017 budget for the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board.
“The Board is committed to providing a distinctive Catholic curriculum that seeks to nurture the giftedness, self-worth and potential of each individual student, while aligning with Ministry of Education goals,” Board Chair Bob Michaud said. “This budget puts funding where it is most needed to provide the best education possible for all students across our Catholic education system.”
The total expenditure for 2016–2017 is $64,078,145, while revenue totals $63,490,078. A deficit of $588,067, which represents less than 1% of total budget, will be covered by Board reserves.
The Board’s theme for 2016–2017 comes from its Vision Statement, Michaud added, calling on all students, staff and administration to “make a difference as faith-filled community builders.”
Michaud noted that, “As a Catholic education system, we strive to teach our students how they can contribute to their communities as mature, respectful citizens and responsible stewards of the world around them. We focus on inclusivity, respect for one another, and sustainability of our environment.”
Michaud pointed out that RCCDSB students already participate in many social justice projects, from fund-raising for various charities to social awareness and environmental activities. “Our efforts in 2016–2017 will enhance this work. Our students will learn how to build lasting and loving connections that make a difference in the communities in which they live.”
Technology-enabled learning continues to be a major focus in 2016–2017, Michaud said, with $243,384 from the Technology and Learning Fund to be invested. The 21st Century Professional Learning Networks project will extend into its fourth year, providing extensive professional development in technology-enabled learning and dramatically increasing the number of devices available to students.
Another priority for the Board is mathematics instruction. A total of $257,500 will be spent on increasing capacity through professional development to engage students in rich tasks, problem solving and strong number sense. Other priorities include French as a Second Language and Specialist High Skills Majors, as well as a continued partnership with Shaw Woods for outdoor education. The Board also will implement the revised Kindergarten program and the new Kindergarten Assessment and Evaluation document.
“We are very proud of the high quality of professionalism among our board and school administration, our teachers, educational assistants, early childhood educators and all support staff,” said Michaud. “They provide our students with rich, challenging programs in safe, caring, joy-filled classrooms and schools, while nurturing their individual giftedness and personal interests.”
The Special Education program will continue to be a priority for the Board, despite a continuing deficit. “We are committed to providing our students who have special needs with the opportunity to achieve their best potential,” said Michaud. “At RCCDSB, we strive to nurture the giftedness, self-worth and potential of all our students.”
The Board’s capital projects for 2016–2017 include a $2.8-million allotment for renovations, repairs and upgrades at schools across the system including the commencement of interior library and cafeteria renovations at St. Joseph’s High School in Renfrew. The board will continue to explore measures to enhance pupil safety, health and well-being.
Our continuing stewardship efforts include the ongoing automation of internal processes to achieve efficiencies across the system. We are expanding online payment to include community booking of school properties, as well as eliminating the use of cash to pay for school activities.
2016- 2017 Summary of Grant Allocations
June 27, 2016
For further information, please contact:
Michele Arbour, Director of Education
Renfrew County Catholic District School Board
499 Pembroke Street West
Pembroke, ON K8A 5P1
Phone: 613-735-1031 or 1-800-267-0191
