The Hanover School Division Board of Trustees announced that it has approved the budget for the 2020-21 school year.
With enrollment projected to increase by 2.5% (approx. 204 students), the new budget addresses divisional growth and provides funding to address critical support needs.
The Board of Trustees recently conducted a community-wide survey asking parents/guardians, community members, and employees for their thoughts regarding the allocation of financial resources within Hanover School Division. Over 1,200 constituents participated in the online survey, providing the board with guidance in the budget planning process. In response to the feedback received, the board has responded by prioritizing funding for front-line support services.
Budget enhancements for 2020-21 include the hiring of additional Educational Assistants (15), Guidance Counsellors (5), and Learning Support Teachers (3.5). The budget also provides funding for the addition of a Social Worker, Learning Support Teacher, Youth Support Worker, and School Liaison (0.5). The new positions will be funded through budget reallocation and the use of divisional surplus. The 2020-21 budget will also meet the needs of projected enrollment growth with the addition of 12 classroom teachers.
Operating expenses for 2020-21 are estimated to be $94.3 million, which reflects a 2.7% increase in expenditures from 2019-20. Provincial funding has increased by 2.1%. Hanover School Division continues to operate within the taxation guidelines provided by the Province of Manitoba. For the third consecutive year, the school taxation levy will result in no tax increase on the average property tax bill of homeowners.
The Board of Trustees worked diligently to find budget cost savings while balancing the educational needs of students. Administration expenses and educational costs (per student) remain among the lowest in the province.
