Manitoba schools are set to receive a 3.5% increase in funding from the provincial government for the upcoming school year. Education Minister Tracy Schmidt disclosed that $79.8 million in new funding is allocated for the 2026-27 school year, with $51 million designated for operating expenses. The funding distribution varies across school divisions, taking into account factors such as enrollment. Additionally, $11.4 million in grants will be provided to support divisions most affected by teacher salary harmonization.
The teacher salary harmonization agreement, established in 2024, is expected to particularly benefit rural divisions with lower salary scales. Minister Schmidt emphasized that the overall funding boost surpasses the inflation rate. According to Statistics Canada, Manitoba experienced a 2.7% inflation rate in 2025, with prices rising by 3.7% in December 2024 compared to the same month the previous year.
President Lillian Klausen of the Manitoba Teachers’ Society expressed some disappointment with the funding increase, hoping for a more substantial raise to address past education funding deficits and classroom needs. Teachers are currently grappling with underfunding challenges, managing larger and more complex classrooms.
Financial pressures remain a constant concern for school divisions like the Louis Riel School Division in Winnipeg. Superintendent Jamie Rudnicki mentioned a $4.3 million expected boost in provincial funding for the division in 2026-27. Despite a 6.43% increase in the mill rate for property taxes last year, the division started the year with a $2.4 million deficit. Rudnicki emphasized the need for detailed budget assessments to balance expenditures and minimize impacts on taxpayers.
Superintendent Mathew Gustafson of the Brandon School Division acknowledged the additional funding support from the province but highlighted ongoing budgetary strains, particularly due to rising staff salaries and increased enrollment. The division faces challenges in addressing all budget pressures, despite the welcomed funding injection.
Winnipeg School Division superintendent Matt Henderson noted the significant wage pressures within the division, mentioning the necessity of a 5% budget increase to accommodate salary raises. The division is expected to receive a 3.8% increase in funding for operating costs, amounting to $9.2 million. While appreciative of the additional funding, Henderson stressed the importance of aligning budget decisions with the division’s values.
Progressive Conservative MLA Wayne Ewasko, the Official Opposition’s education critic, cautioned Manitobans about potential school property tax hikes due to what he perceived as inadequate funding increases for school operating costs. Ewasko highlighted that the current funding boost is lower than the previous school year’s increase.
In summary, while the increase in provincial funding for Manitoba schools is welcomed, stakeholders express concerns about addressing ongoing financial pressures and the need for additional resources to meet the evolving demands within the education sector.