But that didn't stop Yellowknife Catholic Schools (YCS) from holding a public budget session on Nov. 28.

The meeting was the first of two public consultations for YCS for input into the 2003-2004 budget.

The next meeting will be held in April. The budget is scheduled to be approved May 21.

"It would have been helpful to have people to bounce ideas off of. Not that it is written in stone, but by the time you get to April you start to solidify your plans," said Kern Von Hagen, YCS superintendent.

The meeting began with a review of the previous budget, sources of funding and new funds the board is expecting for the next term.

The two largest sources of funding for the board are derived from the GNWT and municipal taxes.

Special needs funding

In 2001-2002 80 per cent of YCS's budgeted $16.5 million went directly to schools, 17 per cent for inclusive schooling.

"Seventeen per cent on inclusive schooling relative to other districts -- we're doing well. We're certainly on the upper end, it is pretty significant dollars," said Mike Huvenaars, YCS business manager.

In 2003-2004, YCS is looking at the following strategic direction to focus future spending: challenging students, improved achievement, literacy-numeracy, assessment,

spirituality, enhanced language and cultural programs, professional development, trades program, future new school development.

The YCS will try to achieve those goals working with anticipated changes in revenue and expenditure.

Spending increases are anticipated in several areas, including salary and benefits due to contract negotiations and higher utility and maintenance costs.