Rainbow board OKs $266M budget

The exterior of the Rainbow District School Board office in Greater Sudbury, Ont. on August 2020 (File photo/CTV News Northern Ontario)

The Rainbow District School Board has approved a $266.4 million budget for the 2025-2026 school year, with a planned withdrawal of $258,382 from reserves to balance expenditures. The amount falls within the one per cent limit of the board’s operating revenue, as permitted by the Ministry of Education. Trustees also approved an in-year deficit plan to align spending with revenue.

Budget focused on student success and well-being

Board Chair David Farrow said the budget prioritizes student achievement and well-being. “We are proud of the programs that we offer inside and outside of the classroom,” he said in news release.

“Our instructional leaders, teachers and support staff give students every opportunity to achieve their full potential.”

The budget accounts for inflationary pressures, including rising utility costs, and incorporates additional provincial funding for early reading, math, skilled trades, mental health, and school safety.

Enrolment and funding breakdown

Projected enrolment for the 2025-2026 school year is 14,196 students, based on historical retention rates, grade progression, and population trends.

Core Education Funding from the province, which increased by approximately two per cent, supports six key areas: classroom staffing, learning resources, special education, school facilities, student transportation, and board administration. Adjustments include a new funding model for special needs equipment, continued support for transportation, and capital renewals for schools.

Targeted funding through Responsive Education Programs will support early reading interventions, digital math tools, Indigenous graduation coaches, skilled trades, and mental health initiatives.

Additional investments include early literacy screening for kindergarten to Grade 2 students, broadband improvements, and the installation of vape detectors in schools.

Budget allocations and strategic priorities

Salaries and benefits account for 76.7 per cent ($204.5 million) of the budget, while supplies and services – including facility maintenance and school technology – make up 7.8 per cent ($20.8 million). Another 7.7 per cent ($20.5 million) is allocated to fees and contracts, including student transportation. The board will also receive $15.7 million for school renewal projects.

The budget supports the fourth year of the board’s strategic plan, which focuses on student achievement, literacy and numeracy, Truth and Reconciliation, mental health, environmental sustainability, and equity.

Programs and facilities

In the upcoming school year, the board will operate 29 elementary and nine secondary schools across Sudbury, Espanola, and Manitoulin Island. It also oversees specialized programs, including mental health services, alternative education, Indigenous-led initiatives, and partnerships with institutions like Cambrian College.

“We are channeling funds into teaching and learning where they will have the greatest impact on student success,” Farrow said.

The budget was approved during a special board meeting on June 24.