Manitoba Schools Add 832 Teacher Positions Since 2023 Election

Since the New Democratic Party (NDP) came to power in the 2023 election, Manitoba’s public schools have seen the creation of 832 new funded teacher positions. This significant increase reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing education across the province, as announced by Education Minister Tracy Schmidt on Wednesday.

During a press conference held at École DSFM Sage Creek, a recently established school within the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine, Schmidt highlighted a 6 percent increase in teaching roles since taking office. The event was attended primarily by students and educators, who expressed enthusiasm for the expansion of educational opportunities.

Focus on French-Language Education

Schmidt emphasized the need for more teachers, particularly in the French-language education sector. “We need more teachers here in Manitoba — we especially need more French teachers,” she stated. In response to this demand, the previous Progressive Conservative government initiated a strategy in 2021 aimed at recruiting French-language educators. Collaborations with the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine and Université de Saint-Boniface have helped outline a roadmap for the years 2023 to 2026.

Over the past two years, the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine has successfully created 41 new teaching positions. However, Superintendent Alain Laberge noted that no positions were added in three schools located in the Westman region, attributing this to small student-teacher ratios. “Getting teachers in rural areas is difficult for all school divisions, but if you add the speaking French factor, it is harder to find all teachers needed,” Laberge explained in an email.

Despite the challenges, Laberge expressed optimism, stating, “We have all the teachers we need so far this year,” though he acknowledged a continued need for substitute teachers.

Growing Enrolment Trends

The demand for French-language education appears to be rising, as the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine reported having more than 6,300 registrants this fall, reflecting a 4.4 percent increase in enrolment between September 2023 and 2024. In comparison, the overall public school population in Manitoba increased by 2 percent last year.

In addition to the new positions in the francophone division, the Brandon School Division has added the equivalent of approximately 34 full-time teachers over the past two years, as stated by Superintendent Mathew Gustafson. He noted a steady growth in enrolment within the division, further underscoring the province’s commitment to meeting educational needs.

The creation of new teaching positions and increasing enrolment numbers indicate a positive trend for Manitoba’s education system. As schools continue to adapt and grow, the recent efforts by the NDP government signal a dedication to improving educational resources and support for both students and teachers alike.