May. 26, 2026
The Calgary Board of Education (CBE) Board of Trustees approved the 2026-2027 operating budget on May 26, 2026. The $1.884 billion budget supports an expected enrolment of 143,475 students and the operation of 252 schools.
According to the provincial funding profile, the CBE will receive more than $1.61 billion in provincial funding for the 2026–2027 school year, an increase of $137 million over last year.
“The Board has consistently advocated for funding that aligns with student needs and the realities in our classrooms. We are encouraged by the province’s investment in education and trust that it represents a sustained commitment for the years ahead,” said Laura Hack, Chair, Board of Trustees.
This year’s budget reflects anticipated student population growth of 1,072 total students (0.8%). With increased funding, including grants to support complexity and reduce class size, the CBE expects to hire nearly 500 additional teachers and hundreds of additional support staff to directly support student learning next year.
Next school year, Evanston Heights School will open its doors to 900 students, bringing together grades 4 to 9 learners who previously attended four different schools. While overall enrolment growth has slowed, the majority of CBE schools are full. Currently, system-wide utilization is 95%, and the system high school utilization rate is well above 100%. By next spring, 67 modular classrooms across 14 schools will be installed.
“This budget enables the CBE to build on its strengths, respond to growing classroom complexity, and continue creating learning environments where students can thrive,” said Chief Superintendent Joanne Pitman. “With this increased funding, we are well positioned to support students and learning, and we remain committed to careful management of operational costs, so resources are directed where they have the greatest impact.”
The CBE is mindful of affordability for families and works to keep fees as manageable as possible. To address rising transportation expenses and the depletion of the transportation reserve, CBE’s student transportation fee will increase to $500 for riders designated to regular yellow school bus transportation.
Finally, the CBE’s 2026-2027 budget is balanced without drawing on reserves. Overall, the outlook for the coming year represents a positive and forward-looking investment in public education.
During the same meeting, the Board of Trustees also approved the third year of the 2024-2027 Three Year Education Plan.
