The amendment to the Teaching Certificates and Qualifications Regulation, under the Education Administration Act in Manitoba (Regulation 109/2024), introduces several updates impacting teacher certification requirements and classifications. These amendments aim to ensure teacher competence in language, promote inclusivity, and streamline requirements for school clinicians and leaders.

A notable change is the removal of the “early-middle years” and “senior years” classifications. The regulation also increases the required number of years from three to six for certain criteria, reflecting higher standards for experience or education. Additional conditions for certification now mandate that applicants demonstrate proficiency in either English or French and complete an approved sexual abuse prevention program, emphasizing safety and professional integrity.

Specific sections of the regulation remove outdated terminology, substituting “special” education with “inclusive” education to foster a more inclusive language and approach in teaching certifications. Sections like 9, 12, and 21 reflect these terminological changes, reinforcing a shift towards inclusive education practices in Manitoba.

For school leadership certifications, the amendments outline new educational requirements. Certification now demands a minimum of 30 credit hours, with at least 15 hours in core leadership skills and 6 hours in field-led courses related to school leadership. This aligns with Manitoba’s Certificate in School Leadership guidelines, designed to support the development of effective school leaders equipped with relevant knowledge, skills, and behaviors.

Additionally, the regulation establishes new classifications for school clinicians—such as audiologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists, and social workers—based on professional qualifications. The amendments specify minimum credit hour requirements for degrees at each class level, from Class 3 through Class 7, depending on the clinician’s field. For instance, school psychologists in Class 5 require a bachelor’s degree and a 30-credit-hour Master’s degree in school psychology, while Class 7 includes additional post-baccalaureate or graduate degrees beyond Class 6 qualifications. This tiered system offers structured career progression and emphasizes advanced education for school clinicians.

These updates to Manitoba’s Teaching Certificates and Qualifications Regulation strive to be inclusive, bilingual, and standardize the educational environment while valuing experience, advanced qualifications, and safety in educational settings.

Manitoba (109/2024) October 24, 2024