‘That is tragic’: Latest CBE budget shows fewer resources, larger class sizes

CALGARY (660 NEWS) – Less than a week after an audit ordered by the province, Calgary’s public school board is planning more cuts to the classroom.

The Calgary Board of Education (CBE) is once again blaming the province for its financial woes, saying it would have to cut resources in all classrooms by two per cent.

The latest budget changes also mean increased classroom sizes by at least two students across the board.

“Some students, where we haven’t been able to meet their needs, directly or as greatly as we would like, they will suffer,” said Trustee Richard Hehr. “That is more than unfortunate, that is tragic.”

The board blames the province for its financial woes, and say the money they received doesn't meet enrollment increases. Classroom resources will be cut by two per cent, and the average classroom size will increase by two students. Fall budget deadline is May 31. #yyc @660NEWS

— Saif Kaisar (@StaySaif) May 27, 2020

The latest budget numbers from the CBE show a $50 million shortfall.

RELATED: Minister gives notice to CBE as results of audit are released

“We know the provincial education budget is frozen, at best, despite the increasing enrolment,” said Trustee Trina Hurdman. “Which means that our funding per student will continue to go down for the foreseeable future.”

Hurdman said it’s likely the board will make more difficult decisions in the future.

The latest CBE budget comes after an independent audit ordered by the UCP provided insight into the board’s spending.

While the audit didn’t show gross misspending, it did show the CBE is more focused on governance and having a short-term vision.

Education Minister Adriana LaGrange issued a ministerial order with 19 conditions that must be met by November, or else she’ll fire the public school board.