Steinbach MLA and Education and Training Minister Kelvin Goertzen announced that the Manitoba government has established a new commission to undertake a comprehensive, independent review of the Kindergarten to Grade 12 education system.
“This is a long-overdue opportunity to build on strengths and identify challenges to create a better education system with high standards for educators, high expectations for student achievement, relevant curriculum, governance excellence and a sustainable fiscal framework,” said Goertzen. “Manitoba’s education system covers a vast geographical area and serves a wide range of communities, and we have selected a commission that reflects that reality.”
The minister noted the process will include extensive consultation across Manitoba and consider a wide range of topics such as student learning, teaching, accountability for student learning, governance and funding.
Manitoba’s Commission on Kindergarten to Grade 12 Education includes Ian Wishart, legislative assistant to the minister of education and training, who will lead public consultation and stakeholder engagement. The eight other commissioners are:
- Dr. Janice MacKinnon (co-chair);
- Clayton Manness (co-chair);
- Terry Brown;
- Mark Frison;
- John Daniel (JD) Lees;
- Jill Quilty;
- Laurel Repski; and
- Denis Robert.
“The commission will serve in the best educational interest of all students, regardless of their abilities, personal or family circumstances, or where they live,” said MacKinnon.
The commission will soon commence public consultation and seek input from students, parents, educators, school boards, academics, Indigenous organizations, la francophonie, municipal councils, professional organizations, the business community and all Manitobans.
“Our focus will be on student outcomes, long-term sustainability and enhanced public confidence, and we will consider the continuum of early learning, post-secondary education and labour market needs,” added Manness.
The minister expects the commission to submit a report with key findings and recommendations by February 2020.
Information about the Kindergarten to Grade 12 review will be posted throughout the year at edu.gov.mb.ca.
Goertzen also announced the publication of information meant to help inform the commission and public. As previously committed, the province has released a preliminary report on consultations with Manitobans on literacy and numeracy held in January 2018. The report will help provide context to the commission and public and is available online at edu.gov.mb.ca.
The minister also announced the release of high school graduation rates, continuing a commitment to restore the practice of sharing school-division level educational results. The department has posted school division level rates from June 2013 to June 2017 using an improved student-tracked method, with plans to post 2018 rates later this year.
The information is available at edu.gov.mb.ca.
