May 14, 2025

Spring Edition Available Now!

If we had to identify an over-arching theme within this issue of the MB Teacher, it would be empathy: where to find it, how to cultivate it, and why we so desperately need it.

In this issue

Our cover story Eco-Education in Action (pg. 14), beautifully illustrates how connecting with living things helps us understand that everything (and everyone) has a place in the global ecosystem. Then there’s two reflections by Manitoba members, Creating Community Through Gaming (pg. 8) and Tabletop Gaming in Schools (pg. 11), about how the creation of a joyful school community through gaming builds confidence and compassion. The members ‘gamely’ share their experience, which artfully blends the imaginative and the academic. Turns out gaming improves math skills and chickens help with anatomy class. Added bonus: no computer screens involved!

We profile newly minted Commissioner of Teacher Professional Conduct, Bobbi Taillefer, (pg. 20) and get clear on how the commission’s processes and policies are taking shape. Taillefer understands the importance of getting it right and looks forward to working with education stakeholders to do just that.

Council of School Leaders president Chris Hicks reflects on the underrated role that advocacy plays in the day to day lives of school leaders in The Principal of the Thing (pg. 28), while recently retired MTS Staff Officer Lia Gervino looks back on her exceptional work with the Women and Leadership portfolio (pg. 22). She shares not only lessons learned but what we can take forward to enhance opportunities for women in education to fully inhabit their leadership potential.

And if you haven’t heard about the launch of an MTS pilot project aimed at forming teams of members dedicated to creating tangible change around areas of key concern to teachers, take a look at MTS Vice President Cynthia Taylor’s article A Place for You in Your Union, (pg. 26). We want your input! You’ll find all the information you need to assess the opportunities on mbteach.org. Just click MTS Member Engagement Expression of Interest on the landing page.

Then there’s an assortment of great book reviews and profiles of a couple of our Special Area Groups of Educators (SAGEs) to round out your reading experience.

Empathy is the work of the heart, and within the context of our busy lives, stressful roles and the challenges inherent in our communities, it can be hard to muster. Yet every day you find ways to show students and colleagues alike that the work of the heart has never been more important. While you take time to rest body and soul in the next couple of months, be as kind and empathetic to yourself as you are to others.

Enjoy this issue and have a wonderful summer.

And remember, our top five featured stories are highlighted on our companion webpage MB Teacher Magazine and are shareable with your friends and colleagues through social media and email. If you prefer you can also view and download the MB Teacher Spring 2025 PDF.