Manitoba Government Media Release |
SWAN RIVER—The Manitoba government will provide $750,000 in funding for a multi-year project in the Swan Valley School Division to support youth transitioning from high school to post-secondary training as part of a new $5-million investment in projects to support Manitoba students, Education Minister Cliff Cullen and Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration Minister Wayne Ewasko announced December 13, 2021.
“Across Manitoba, skilled and dedicated teachers, staff and school leaders support quality education and improve student outcomes through innovation each and every day,” said Cullen. “The Teachers’ Idea Fund provides educators the resources needed to make their innovative ideas a reality and these projects will support improved student outcomes in classrooms.”
The Swan Valley School Division has been working on the development of a technical vocational institute that will deliver transitional opportunities to current high school students as well as adult students the ministers noted.
“Northern Lights Institute of Trades and Technology (NITT) will work to establish partnerships with key stakeholders, including Indigenous communities, to create education and training pathways to employment and lifelong learning in the Swan Valley area and beyond,” said Cameron Mateika, superintendent, Swan Valley School Division. “These programs and partnerships will ensure students can access and successfully complete their studies and training, and ultimately gain the skills needed for successfully finding good jobs.”
The NITT in the Swan Valley School Division will receive $150,000 per year for the next five years.
“Through the NITT, Swan Valley School Division will work closely with nearby communities, First Nations, employers and educational institutions to create important educational and training opportunities for youth in the region,” said Ewasko. “This initiative also aligns with Manitoba’s Skills, Talent and Knowledge Strategy and will provide essential skills training to youth and young adults.”
The ministers noted today’s announcement also includes an additional 18 multi-year projects and 10 single-year projects including:
an introducing Ojibway language and culture, including drumming and other traditional activities;
enhanced improving mental health and well-being of students by providing the skills needed to cope and thrive in challenging situations; and
implementing literacy initiatives to current kindergarten students’ to improve letter and sounds recognition.
The funding is being provided through the Manitoba’s Teachers’ Idea Fund, a five-year, $25-million investment in the ideas and innovations of front-line teachers, staff and school leaders from across the province. Proposals are reviewed by a selection committee, must meet specific criteria and be submitted with the endorsement of the qualifying school and school division authority for multi-year funding.
Today’s announcement brings the total commitment to $6.5 million in support of nearly 110 projects. The ministers thanked the members of the application review panel for their support of this important initiative.