POSTED JUNE 29, 2026
BRANTFORD, ON – The Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board (BHNCDSB) has approved a balanced 2026-2027 operating budget of $207.2 million and a capital budget of $61.9 million, investing in student success through learning, well-being and inclusive education.
Aligned with the Board’s strategic priorities of Belonging, Teaching and Learning, and Wellness, the 2026-2027 budget responds to the evolving needs of students while continuing to invest in the programs, services and supports that strengthen Catholic education across the district.
“This budget reflects our commitment to providing every student with the opportunity to succeed in a welcoming, faith-filled learning environment,” said Carol Luciani, Chair of the Board. “Each decision was made with students at the centre, balancing today’s priorities with the long-term needs of our school system. We are proud to approve a budget that reflects the priorities of our students, families and communities.”
Students with diverse learning needs will benefit from increased Educational Assistant staffing, additional Special Education Resource Teachers and the continued expansion of the Spectrum Abilities Program, creating more opportunities for students to access specialized supports within their local Catholic school community.
By September, every school will also have a dedicated sensory space to support self-regulation, inclusion and student success. These spaces will provide welcoming environments where students can access the supports they need to fully participate in learning.
Student achievement remains at the heart of this year’s budget. New classroom resources, updated learning materials and continued investment in educator learning will strengthen classroom instruction and support engaging, inclusive and evidence-informed learning experiences across the district.
Technology investments will continue to support learning in and beyond the classroom. Beginning in January 2027, approximately 75 per cent of schools will benefit from faster, more reliable internet service through a new network services agreement.
Phase 1 of the Board’s student laptop refresh initiative will also begin, replacing aging devices with modern technology that supports learning, creativity and collaboration.
The Board is also continuing its investment in artificial intelligence through educator learning, classroom innovation and partnerships with other school boards. These initiatives will help students build the digital literacy, critical thinking and technological skills they will need for future learning and employment.
Student mental health continues to be an important focus of this budget. Building on last year’s significant investment in Child and Youth Workers, the Board is adding two additional full-time positions. Every student at BHNCDSB will have access to a Child and Youth Worker, or a Social Worker at their school, strengthening mental health services, promoting resilience and ensuring students have access to caring adults when they need them.
“Our budget is much more than a financial plan,” said Rajini Nelson, Superintendent of Business and Treasurer. “Every decision made during the budget process was guided by one question: how will it benefit students? This balanced budget allows us to strengthen supports where they are needed most while continuing to plan carefully for the future.”
The 2026-2027 budget reflects the Board’s commitment to Catholic education by investing in students, supporting learning and creating welcoming school communities where every learner is encouraged to grow, contribute and succeed.
MEDIA RELEASE CONTACT(S)
For information about this release:
Rajini Nelson | Superintendent of Business
Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board
Email: rnelson@bhncdsb.ca
For information about BHNCDSB:
Tracey Austin | Manager of Communication and Community Relations
Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board
Email: communications@bhncdsb.ca
