New Report Highlights Economic Benefits of Alternative Schools

A recent report underscores the significant economic impact and untapped potential of alternative schools catering to mature students, adult newcomers, and individuals who did not complete Grade 12. This analysis, led by Jim Silver, professor emeritus at the University of Winnipeg, advocates for a broader definition of education that includes basic adult education.

Silver’s work was released in partnership with the Manitoba Research Alliance and the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives. The report features a cost-benefit analysis based on data collected from adults who earned a mature high school diploma within the last five years. This survey, approved by the university’s ethics committee, gathered insights from participants across locations such as Winnipeg, The Pas, Altona, Killarney, and Boissevain between January 20 and April 28.

According to the findings, an impressive five out of six graduates reported being employed, continuing their education, or both—an 83% success rate. Silver noted that over 60% of the 63 individuals who were dependent on employment and income assistance at enrollment indicated they no longer required it. The reduction in social assistance, combined with the taxes paid by working graduates, amounts to approximately $700,000 annually. This figure does not account for potential taxes from the 42 respondents currently pursuing post-secondary education.

At the report launch held at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Silver shared these findings with attendees, including Norma Zacharias, a 30-year-old student at Regional Connections Immigrant Services. Zacharias, who moved to Manitoba from Tamaulipas, Mexico, in 2022, expressed excitement about her educational journey. “I think a high school education will give me better opportunities at work and help me pursue a career,” she remarked. Balancing childcare and evening shifts, she aims to complete her remaining credits while working in a warehouse.

Silver addressed the audience, which consisted of students and educators, at the Adult Secondary Education Council’s 2025 conference. He urged participants to rebrand their programs to emphasize their importance in fostering economic growth in Manitoba. His suggestion included encouraging students to write letters about the value of their education, which could be sent to provincial leaders such as Reneé Cable, the Minister of Advanced Education, and Wab Kinew, the Premier.

The report highlights that 90% of participants believe their children benefit from their parents’ involvement in adult education. The study concludes that the Manitoba government recoups its investment within ten years of funding adult basic education programs. Silver’s research carries a margin of error of plus or minus 4.83 percentage points, with a confidence level of 95%.

With growing recognition of the value of alternative education, the report advocates for increased funding from provincial governments as part of poverty-reduction strategies. This initiative aims not only to empower individuals but also to create broader economic benefits for the community.