The Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) is moving forward with a recovery-focused budget for the 2025–2026 school year, aiming to balance fiscal responsibility with continued support for student well-being and academic success.
The board is expected to close out the 2024-25 school year with a $32-million deficit, driven largely by staffing pressures and increased costs related to employee absences.
In response, the 2025–2026 budget includes significant steps to reduce that shortfall to an estimated $10.6 million.
“We remain committed to addressing financial challenges while making sure that our students continue to have access to the support and services they need,” said Director of Education Bill Tucker. “Our focus is on making thoughtful adjustments that will help us maintain the high standards of education our community expects, while working toward long-term financial stability.”
Strategic staffing reductions and a review of operational costs form the foundation of the board’s recovery plan.
Despite the cutbacks, TVDSB says core services—including literacy and numeracy programs, mental health supports, and safe school initiatives—will remain in place.
Working closely with a Ministry-appointed supervisor, the board says it will continue evaluating strategies to balance the budget while preserving essential student programming.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
