Deficit-free BRSD budget is forecast

For the first time in nearly a decade, Battle River School Division is forecasting a deficit-free operating budget. But the Board and Superintendent of Schools are clear that the positive budget news has come as a result of significant changes and reductions.

“We’re very pleased to be able to have a balanced budget,” says Board Chair Cheryl Smith.

“Every department, school and worksite has made changes in order to reach this milestone and I truly believe that it will serve us well in the years ahead.  For the first time in years Battle River School Division is living within its means.”

In the last 15 years, the local school division has experienced a steady decline in student numbers, as the number of students starting Grade 1 has been consistently lower than the number of students finishing Grade 12.

For much of that time, BRSD relied on reserve dollars to offset the funding reductions that declining enrollment caused and avoided making big changes in staffing or service levels.

Fore more see the Dec. 13/11 issue of the Viking Weekly Review