Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) tabled a balanced budget for the next school year, something the board’s top official said comes from a strong relationship with elected officials and the province.
“At the end of the day, the board of trustees has the authority and responsibility to approve the budget,” explained Director of Education Graham Shantz.
“I have to say they have been very engaged in the process as we’ve scrutinized our finances and ultimately brought a balanced budget forward.”
The board does have an $820,000 deficit on the books for 2025, something Shantz said will be a thing of the past in 2026. He added the education sector is heavily regulated and the province has set high standards for boards to live up to.
“I think what’s more important is that when a school board like the AMDSB is in a solid or balanced situation, it allows us to focus on our core mandate of improving student achievement and wellbeing. We need to ensure dollars are spent on things like literacy, math, mental health supports and inclusive education.”
Media have reported on financial and other problems experienced by some Ontario boards.
The nearby Thames Valley District School Board has been taken over by the province, and Shantz explained the Ministry of Education has a goal to increase public confidence in the education system.
“I’ve spent my life in this sector and I have a deep belief in the positive impact that public education has in our communities. This is one piece of building public confidence that school boards are run and managed appropriately.”
The 2026 AMDSB budget totals just under $261 million with about $16 million of that earmarked for capital projects.
