Classroom supply boost among education funding changes for CDSBEO

The board says its goal is to make sure funding decisions support student achievement, well-being and safe learning environments across Eastern Ontario

The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario is preparing for new funding changes as it builds its 2026-27 budget.

Ashley Hutchinson, the board’s superintendent of business and treasurer, presented an overview of Core Education Funding during the May 19 board meeting.

The update outlined several changes from the Ministry of Education that will affect CDSBEO in the coming school year.

Hutchinson said the funding approach lines up with the board’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan, especially the goal of nurturing safe, supportive and effective learning spaces.

Trustees heard one of the key changes is a $750 allocation per classroom to help elementary educators buy classroom supplies.

The board was also told about new procurement requirements through Supply Ontario.

Other investments are focused on consistent curriculum resources and a modest increase to school operations funding.

The presentation also noted that some money previously delivered through Responsive Education Programs is being redirected into Core Education Funding.

That includes supports such as reading interventions and math supports.

Trustees were also briefed on labour-related adjustments and technical updates to funding formulas.

The board says the changes are part of the province’s broader education funding plan, which helps school boards prepare for staffing, classroom resources, school operations and student supports.

Budget planning for the 2026-27 school year is now continuing at CDSBEO.

More details are expected to come forward in June as staff work through the final numbers and prepare the board’s budget.

The board says its goal is to make sure funding decisions support student achievement, well-being and safe learning environments across Eastern Ontario.