The board of governors at Lethbridge Polytechnic has approved a balanced operating budget for 2026-27.
The board has also reviewed projected balanced budgets for 2027-28 and 2028-29, following two years of significant change at the local post-secondary.
“We have moved through a period of challenge and into one of stability,” said president and CEO Dr. Brad Donaldson. “It has not been easy, but the pressures of the past two years have ultimately strengthened our focus, helped clarify our priorities and reinforced our commitment to students, employees, partners and our community.”
Donaldson added that with the approval, the polytechnic can move forward with confidence and focus on building student recruitment and retention, introducing new industry-driven programs, modernizing the Lethbridge campus, and boosting community partnerships.
“These are not separate efforts,” he said. “They are connected and guided by our vision of preparing learners and shaping communities and by clear strategic imperatives that help us move forward with focus and purpose.”
Officials noted that despite careful financial management, the polytechnic is investing in areas that will benefit the future of the institution and community.
Recently, a Pre-Veterinary Medicine diploma program was announced at the school, and several new programs are being explored and developed, with potential launches set to happen over the next one to two years.
“Because of the collective effort of our campus community, we are moving ahead with momentum, growing with intention and building a future that is full of opportunity, possibility and pride,” said Donaldson.
One of the programs proposed for the post-secondary is a Dental Assistance certificate, which officials said has received support from the southern Alberta dental industry.
