Standardizing Reference Dates, Enrollment Definitions, Fiscal References for Public Schools

The “Funding of Schools Program Regulation, amendment, M.R. 146/2023” modifies the existing Funding of Schools Program Regulation, Manitoba Regulation 160/2022, under The Public Schools Act, C.C.S.M. c. P250. This regulation introduces several changes aimed at updating definitions, formulas, and schedules essential for the funding framework of public schools in Manitoba.
One of the notable amendments includes the repeal of the definition for “French language education support.” Additionally, the definitions for “school building factor” and “total enrolment” have been adjusted to change the reference date from “September 30” to “September 29,” standardizing this date across various sections for administrative consistency. The regulation also modifies subsections related to enrollment counts and funding calculations, replacing references to “September 30” with “September 29” in multiple subsections to align all calculations with the updated date.
Furthermore, several fiscal year references have been updated from “2021-2022” to “2022-2023,” ensuring that funding calculations and allocations reflect the most recent fiscal year, which is crucial for school budgeting and planning. In a shift towards more standardized and reliable data sources, the term “National Household Survey” has been replaced with “Census” in various clauses, emphasizing the importance of accurate demographic data for determining funding.
Changes have also been made to various schedules, particularly Schedule A and Schedule B. Schedule A has been revised to include updated enrollment figures and definitions, with new items and clauses added to accurately reflect eligible enrollments and funding formulas for the revised fiscal years. Specific amendments include a change in Item F, which now reflects a shift in program numbers from “Programs 10 to 60” to “Programs 210 to 260,” and updates in Item T that align funding formulas with the most current enrollment data.
Additionally, changes to specific funding amounts in Item Y indicate an increase in the total allocation for certain programs, adjusting previous figures to meet current needs. The introduction of Schedule D.1 provides further clarity on the categorization of resident pupils and details enrollment data over the years.
The regulation is deemed to have come into force retroactively from July 1, 2022, establishing continuity in funding practices and allowing schools to effectively plan their budgets based on the updated framework.
By standardizing reference dates, updating enrollment definitions, and adjusting fiscal references, the regulation seeks to improve the transparency and effectiveness of funding distribution. This systematic approach is designed to better support schools in achieving their operational and educational objectives, ultimately contributing to improved educational outcomes throughout the province.
Manitoba (146/2023) November 29, 2023