Eleanor McMillan Champions Education for Young Mothers in Winnipeg

Eleanor McMillan, an 83-year-old educator from Winnipeg, has dedicated her life to ensuring that young mothers receive the education they deserve. With a firm belief in the importance of education, she has played a pivotal role in shaping programs that support pregnant and parenting adolescents throughout their academic journeys.

McMillan founded the Adolescent Parent Centre, which offers academic courses tailored specifically for young mothers and pregnant teens. The centre, located at 136 Cecil Street, provides a supportive environment for students through junior and senior high school. Under her leadership, the centre has become a vital resource for approximately 60 students, allowing them to continue their education until they turn 21 or their child reaches two years of age.

Reflecting on her early influences, McMillan credits her parents for instilling the value of education in her. “It was never preached. It was just there,” she noted, emphasizing the significance of her father’s role as a teacher and principal. This foundation motivated her to pursue a career in education, where she taught at the centre for over a decade before retiring in 2001.

Commitment to Young Parents

Following her retirement, McMillan continued her commitment to education by serving as chairperson of the Program for Adolescent Parents and Infant Development (PAPID), a non-profit organization that supports the Adolescent Parent Centre. The program not only adheres to the Manitoba education curriculum but also offers courses in parenting and nutrition, ensuring that students receive holistic support during their formative years.

The necessity for such programs became evident to McMillan in the 1980s when she observed that many young women were dropping out of school after becoming parents. She believed that without education, their chances of advancing in life were severely limited. “I think if you don’t have an education, you don’t have much of a chance of getting ahead,” she stated.

The Adolescent Parent Centre’s roots trace back to 1986 when McMillan, alongside a group from St. Stephen’s-Broadway United Church, envisioned a school that catered to adolescent parents. This initiative laid the groundwork for the PAPID and ultimately led to the establishment of the Adolescent Parent Centre in 1989, merging previous programs to create a more comprehensive service for young mothers.

A Lasting Impact

With the support of the Winnipeg School Division, the centre has secured primary funding, allowing it to thrive. Additionally, PAPID raises funds for special initiatives, including field trips and bursaries for graduating students. Volunteers play a crucial role in organizing events, such as the centre’s annual Christmas dinner, fostering community spirit.

McMillan remains actively involved, expressing her joy in visiting the school where she dedicated years of her career. “I still have a strong interest,” she said. Many alumni have shared their gratitude, stating that without the centre, their current success would not have been possible.

Ainslie Loria, vice-principal at the Winnipeg Adult Education Centre, praised McMillan’s ongoing contributions, describing her as “lovely” and always eager to engage with students and their children. Her passion for education extends beyond the centre, as she also volunteers as a choir director at her church, Atlantic-Garden City United.

Through her tireless efforts, Eleanor McMillan exemplifies the impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities. Her work continues to empower young mothers, equipping them with the tools necessary to pursue their education and build brighter futures for themselves and their children.