Students in schools across Manitoba will see more investments in their future, including targeted supports for academic achievement and career development, with more than $1.3 billion in public schools funding.
“We invest in our schools so all families can see their children get a high-quality education and the skills they need to get good jobs here in Manitoba,” said Premier Greg Selinger. “We are proud to support parents and teachers in the classroom as we work together to make sure every student succeeds.”
The premier noted total funding for public schools will increase above the rate of economic growth at 2.55 per cent, or $32.5 million, to bring total funding to more than $1.3 billion. Since 1999, provincial support for public school has increased by 69.5 per cent, or $536.2 million.
“As partners in equipping our schools with the resources they require, we remain grateful to the government for its strong support,” said Ken Cameron, president, Manitoba School Boards Association. “Sixteen years of consecutive funding increases have provided a strong foundation on which all school boards can build.”
The new targeted funding provides school divisions with more resources to put into classrooms to help support student achievement, the premier said. These investments include:
- $13.9 million to support literacy and numeracy programming – a 5.9 per cent increase;
- $1.8 million to support the Student Achievement Fund that provides targeted supports for innovative programs that help individual students succeed or excel like Propel and SHAD – an increase of more than 124.7 per cent; and
- new supports for principals and school administrators to support data-based decision-making in the classroom.
“Today’s funding announcement by the Manitoba government recognizes that classrooms are more challenging and diverse than ever,” said Norm Gould, president, the Manitoba Teachers’ Society. “Once again, public schools can count on stable funding at the rate of economic growth that is responsive to the needs of teachers, students, parents and communities across this province.”
The premier said the funding will also support new resources, career planning and help students decide which post-secondary program is right for them including:
- providing $200,000 to help low-income students pay for college and university application fees;
- launching www.setyourcourse.ca, a website designed to help high school students and young adults see what education and training they need to get their dream job;
- developing new high school credits for paid employment, co-operative placements or internships; and
- getting feedback directly from students on what resources and tools they want to help prepare them for a career or post-secondary education.
“Education is priceless, and parents and caregivers expect nothing less than exceptional educational experiences for their children,” said Naomi Kruse, executive director, Manitoba Association of Parent Councils (MAPC). “MAPC will continue to encourage Manitoba Education and Advanced Learning’s support of existing education resources while advocating for the funding needed to ensure every student in Manitoba has access to the highest quality educational opportunities, services and supports possible.”
The premier noted that other areas receiving increased support with new funding include:
- targeted supports for Indigenous and newcomer students;
- more resources for under-privileged youth; and
- equalization support for divisions, maintaining the formula guarantee.
“We are making strategic, targeted investments in our schools to make sure that that all children can succeed, no matter what barriers they may face,” said Education and Advance Learning Minister James Allum. “We believe investments in students are worthwhile and believe in working with parents and teachers.”
