New Report Highlights Economic Benefits of Alternative Schools for Adults

A recent report underscores the significant economic benefits and untapped potential of alternative schools catering to mature students, including adult newcomers and individuals who did not complete Grade 12. Conducted in collaboration with the Manitoba Research Alliance and the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, the study was led by Jim Silver, a professor emeritus at the University of Winnipeg. This research aims to reshape perceptions of education by advocating for the inclusion of adult education in the broader educational framework.

Silver’s report reveals that five out of six graduates from these alternative schools are either currently employed, continuing their education, or both. This statistic translates to an impressive 83 percent success rate among graduates who obtained their mature high-school diplomas within the last five years. The findings are based on a survey conducted by Probe Research among participants from various locations, including Winnipeg, The Pas, Altona, Killarney, and Boissevain, between January 20 and April 28, 2023.

The economic impact of these programs is noteworthy. Over 60 percent of the 63 respondents who were previously on employment and income assistance reported that they no longer require such support after completing their education. Silver estimates that the reduction in social assistance, coupled with the new taxes contributed by working graduates, amounts to approximately $700,000 annually. This figure does not account for potential future tax contributions from those currently pursuing post-secondary education.

At the report launch held at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, attendees, including students and educators, engaged with the findings passionately. Among those present was Norma Zacharias, a 30-year-old student balancing childcare and evening shifts while pursuing her final year at Regional Connections Immigrant Services. Having moved to Manitoba from Tamaulipas, Mexico, in 2022, Zacharias now speaks fluent German and Spanish, along with a solid foundation in English. She expressed her belief that completing her high school education will enhance her job opportunities and allow her to pursue a career.

During the conference, Silver called on educators to rebrand adult learning programs to highlight their critical role in strengthening the Manitoba economy. He suggested that students write letters detailing their experiences in alternative education, which could be sent to influential figures such as Reneé Cable, the Minister of Advanced Education, and Wab Kinew, the Premier of Manitoba. “People pay attention when they receive a bunch of letters,” Silver remarked.

The report emphasizes that obtaining a mature high school diploma yields both personal and fiscal benefits, not just for the individuals involved but also for the province. According to the findings, 90 percent of study participants noted that their children benefited from their education journey. Furthermore, the report asserts that the Manitoba government breaks even on funding adult basic education within ten years.

Silver’s survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 4.83 percentage points, ensuring a reliable representation of the graduates’ experiences. Participants were incentivized to complete the survey with the chance to win a $100 prize at their respective centres.

The findings presented in this report advocate for a broader understanding of education, one that includes essential adult learning opportunities. As alternative schools continue to demonstrate their positive impact, the call for increased funding and recognition of these programs grows stronger — a necessary step towards a more inclusive educational landscape in Manitoba and beyond.