Ontario Announces $30.3 Billion in Funding for Schools in 2025-26
The Ontario Ministry of Education announced on May 23 it has allocated $30.3 billion in core education funding for the 2025-26 school year. The Ministry stated that this funding will support classroom staff, special education, and the operation and renewal of school facilities across Ontario.
The Ministry outlined funding breakdowns as follows: $16.5 billion for classroom staff, including teachers, kindergarten early childhood educators, and educational assistants; $4.7 billion for staff supporting students outside the classroom, such as librarians, guidance counsellors, mental health workers, and school administrators, as well as for classroom materials and equipment. Special education will receive $3.9 billion, and $3 billion has been allocated for the operation, maintenance, renovation, and renewal of school buildings. An additional $1.4 billion is set for student transportation services.
According to the Ministry, school renewal funding is planned to increase to $2 billion for 2025-26 through capital funding. This includes $1.3 billion committed through the Capital Priorities program to support 45 new or expanded schools. The Ministry reports these projects are expected to create more than 25,000 student spaces and over 1,600 licensed child care spaces across 23 school boards.
The Ministry stated that Ontario school boards are responsible for educational program quality, student performance, and financial management. The Ministry also noted it can conduct reviews and financial investigations within boards as needed. Since April 2025, a supervisor has been appointed to oversee the Thames Valley District School Board, and financial investigations have been launched at the Toronto District School Board, Toronto Catholic District School Board, and Ottawa-Carleton District School Board.
According to the government, new oversight measures for financial and governance practices at school boards are expected to be introduced in the coming weeks.