At their November 29 Regular Board Meeting, the Board of Trustees approved the Division’s audited financial statements as of August 31, 2023, after receiving a presentation from the auditors.

“Once again, Black Gold’s Finance department and auditors presented the financial statements to the Audit Committee, and received a clean audit opinion showing no irregularities or concerns,” said Board Chair Esther Eckert. “Our Division continues to manage resources responsibly and is using the funds received to provide safe and caring, learning environments to meet the needs of our students and staff.”

The Board also approved the 2023-2024 Fall Budget Update for the Black Gold School Division, as presented.

“Alberta Education no longer requires the submission of a fall budget update,” said Associate Superintendent Chelsey Volkman. “However, due to the number of changes that occur from mid-May – when the Spring budget is finalized – to early Fall, including the September 29 student enrolment count, we continue to create a fall update, which will serve as the operating budget for the 2023-2024 school year.”

In the Fall Budget Update, the Black Gold School Division is budgeting $156.57 million in revenues and $158.03 million in expenses for a planned operating deficit of $1.46 million. The planned deficit will be used to provide a third year of increased instructional support for numeracy and literacy for students and a comprehensive wellness plan at each school, as well as support costs related to the opening of Ohpaho Secondary School next fall.