New School Year Kicks Off in Manitoba with Enthusiasm

On Wednesday, the new school year commenced for the majority of school divisions in Manitoba, as confirmed by a list from the provincial government. A total of 22 divisions welcomed students back, generating a palpable sense of excitement among educators and pupils alike.

Schools Embrace New Beginnings

Ara Morris, principal of Sargent Park School in the Winnipeg School Division, expressed the enthusiasm surrounding the start of the academic year. “There’s so much excitement in the air,” Morris stated, noting that teachers have prepared their classrooms and offices for weeks in advance. “It’s so fun at the beginning of the year,” she added, highlighting the collective efforts made by the staff to create a welcoming environment for students.

While classes began on Wednesday for most divisions, 14 other school divisions are set to start on either Thursday or Friday. Additionally, the Swan Valley School Division will begin classes on Monday, ensuring that students across the province have a structured return to learning.

Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere

In an effort to foster community and inclusivity, Anna Manila, a Grade 1 and 2 teacher at Sargent Park School, has adopted a unique approach to greeting her students. “I greet students at my classroom door by having them select a preferred greeting from an array of options posted on the wall,” Manila explained. Students can choose to offer a morning hug, a high-five, a fist bump, a wave, or a smile. “It helps build community. It helps make them feel safe, seen, and welcome, and we do this every morning when they come in,” she emphasized.

Students are equally enthusiastic about returning to school. One student, Shane, who also assists as a school crossing guard, shared his mixed feelings about the transition. “I’m most excited about the opportunity that I can get to make more friends, and also to see my friends that I didn’t really get to see during summer break,” he stated, reflecting the sentiment of many students eager to reconnect after the summer holidays.

The start of the school year in Manitoba illustrates the importance of community and connection in education. With teachers and students alike ready to embark on a new academic journey, the province is poised for a vibrant and engaging school year ahead.

Reporting by CTV’s Ainsley McPhail contributed to this article.