The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way the education system operates. The Manitoba Teachers’ Society through its ongoing work with the provincial government and other education stakeholders has played a key role in helping ensure that students, teachers and all others involved in the public education system are given the necessary resources and supports to succeed.
As part of the Manitoba Education’s COVID-19 Response Planning Team (RPT), representatives from The Society participate in weekly Zoom meetings with Manitoba Education staff, senior school division administrators, school board trustees, independent school leadership, teachers, parents/caregivers, and service providers. The discussions at these meetings are confidential and gives stakeholders the opportunity to provide updates and input on a number of priority areas.
One of our main tasks on the RPT committee is the development of an online survey, which seeks teacher voices and perspectives on how to best address learning gaps and needs as we transition from remote teaching and learning to an in school environment. We will have more information on this survey in the coming weeks.
In addition to participation on committees, MTS Officers have had regular telephone conversations with the education minister and assistant deputy minister to keep updated on emerging issues.