Passing important legislation

Tyndall Park

I am happy to be able to share that Bill 225: The Public Schools Amendment Act passed unanimously in the legislature last month.

Passing legislation can be a lengthy process and, in this case, it felt a bit like a rollercoaster.

I began working on the legislation and consulting with stakeholders over a year ago. I introduced the legislation on March 26, 2025, and later had it debated at second reading on April 15.

At second reading I was honoured to be joined at the legislature by various groups, including teachers, parents, children, pediatricians, speech pathologists and more. After I explained the legislation in detail, and answered questions from my colleagues, several MLAs spoke to the importance of literacy here in Manitoba.

Several months later, on Oct. 8, the bill was called to committee. This was my favourite part of the process because we heard first-hand from stakeholders and, most notably, children why this legislation is so important. The testimony was incredible. People were vulnerable, articulate, and contributed important information to the legislation.

Following the committee presentation, a ton of work went on behind the scenes — lots of meetings, lobbying and working within legislative protocol to create a couple of amendments that would garner the support of the government.

I am very grateful that on Nov. 4, two days before the legislative session came to an end, we were able to finalize the amendments, and we passed the legislation with the unanimous support of all MLAs.

I sincerely want to thank everyone involved for helping pass this bill. Everyone who contributed towards the legislation and my fellow MLAs for their efforts in passing the bill for the benefit of Manitoba students.

This journey began when I learned that, for decades, Manitoba has struggled with literacy outcomes; with only 40 per cent of students reading at grade level; for Indigenous students, the numbers are even lower. This legislation ensures every child, regardless of socio-economic background, receives the support they need to succeed.

Now, because of this legislation, Manitoba’s 37 school divisions have a much clearer and consistent direction for screening assessments for reading. All students from kindergarten to Grade 3 will be screened twice per school year for learning difficulties by educators using an evidence-based screening tool. Further, the legislation ensures that parents and guardians are made aware of any findings by the next report card; and it adds a layer of accountability to ensure the findings are acted upon.

I am very proud to be serving as a politician in a time where we can put partisan politics aside for the betterment of children and families here in Manitoba.