Manitoba Introduces Public Teacher Registry and Selects Commissioner for Handling Misconduct Complaints
Manitoba has introduced a searchable registry of certified teachers in the province and established a commission to address complaints of professional misconduct against educators.
The registry, originally pledged by the former provincial Progressive Conservative government, is akin to those in Ontario and British Columbia.
Acting Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Tracy Schmidt emphasized the importance of teacher professional conduct in the news release, reassuring parents and caregivers that student safety remains paramount.
The Manitoba teacher professional conduct review process will be overseen by independent commissioner Bobbi Taillefer, who will manage complaints and facilitate resolution agreements.
A 12-member hearing panel will comprise teachers, Manitoba School Boards Association representatives, and public members.
The Canadian Centre for Child Protection expressed strong support for these measures, believing they will enhance trust in Manitoba’s school system.
The changes align with recommendations from C3P reports on child safety and misconduct by school personnel, published in 2017 and 2022.
Complaint Process
Anyone can report teacher misconduct, which will then be reviewed by the commissioner for appropriate action.
The registry includes certified teachers since 1960, displaying disciplinary actions taken since 1990.
While ongoing investigations are not listed, the commissioner has the authority to suspend a teacher under investigation if necessary to safeguard students.
Registry
Discipline actions since 1990 are publicly available, except for ongoing investigations or interim disciplinary measures.
