What We Do
The Manitoba Teachers’ Society is the collective bargaining and professional development organization for all of Manitoba’s 16,000 public school teachers.
Founded in 1919, the Society provides assistance to local associations in collective bargaining, offers professional development workshops and lobbies government on legislation that affects education, students and teachers.
As well, MTS provides a range of wellness services including the Disability Benefits Plan and HumanaCare.
It also provides publication services for teacher organizations such as Special Area Groups and publishes the teachers’ newsletter, the annual handbook, annual report and an extensive range of brochures and other handbooks.
Mission
The Society, as a union and professional organization, is dedicated to advancing and safeguarding the welfare of teachers, the status of the teaching profession and the cause of public education in Manitoba.
Society Goals
The goals of the Society are to:
(a) promote the profession of teaching, high ethical standards within the profession, professional competence and the ongoing professional development of teachers;
(b) engage in collective bargaining and other relevant negotiations to improve the economic benefits, professional rights, pension benefits and working conditions of teachers;
(c) advocate for a strong, viable, and effective education system capable of accommodating the needs of Manitoba students and teachers;
(d) provide its Members with an organization that will give them an equal, effective and democratic opportunity to pursue their professional aspirations;
(e) establish and administer insurance and benefit schemes and programs in accordance with the Constitution and Bylaws; and
(f) address broad societal issues that promote social justice, cooperation and understanding.
Teachers’ Bill of Rights
The Teachers’ Bill of Rights has been adopted through policy resolutions presented at the Society’s Annual General Meetings. While many of its provisions have support in legislation, members are cautioned that it does not have the force of law.
- A teacher is entitled to be a member of, participate in the work of, and be represented by the Manitoba Teachers’ Society.
- A teacher is entitled to teach and be protected under provisions outlined in the collective agreement.
- A teacher is entitled to have consultation and due process with respect to all matters relating to contractual relationships.
- A teacher is entitled to be directly involved in all professional decisions including the determination of the criteria for performance evaluation.
- A teacher is entitled to work in a healthful and safe environment.
- A teacher is entitled to maintain a reasonable standard of discipline.
- A teacher is entitled to organize learning activities without unwarranted interference