Manitoba teachers are getting a pay raise.
Teachers have ratified the first-ever provincial collective agreement. In a press release, The Manitoba Teacher's Society (MTS) states that nearly 70 per cent of eligible voters cast their ballots, with 95 per cent voting 'yes' to the deal. The deal covers public school teachers in the 37 anglophone school divisions.
The four-year collective agreement is in effect from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2026. MTS says it introduces substantial wage increases, improved working conditions, and enhanced workplace safety and health measures. Teachers across Manitoba will benefit from a wage increase of approximately 12.25 per cent over the term of the agreement, with a compounded increase of 12.85 per cent. The salary schedule will see a general percentage increase of 2.5 per cent for 2022/23, of 2.75 per cent for 2023/24, of three per cent for 2024/25 and another three per cent for 2025/26 with an additional one per cent teacher retention adjustment starting February 1st, 2026.
"This agreement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teachers," says MTS President Nathan Martindale. "It reflects our commitment to recognizing their invaluable contributions and ensuring they are supported in their ever-changing and demanding roles."
According to MTS, the collective agreement also includes a new salary schedule for the 2026/27 school year, with additional allowances for northern regions and Indigenous language teaching. It also includes improvements to workplace safety and health, including enhanced protections and the right to a violence-free workplace, as well as paid leave during inclement weather. MTS says other highlights include increased prep time to a minimum of 210 minutes per cycle by 2025/26, capped instructional days, and provisions for extra-curricular activities. And there will be improved leave options, including up to three days for personal leave and up to three days for Indigenous ceremonial, cultural, and spiritual observance leave.
"By addressing issues such as preparation time, workplace safety, and leaves, this agreement not only improves the day-to-day experiences of our teachers but also strengthens the overall quality of education our students receive," adds Martindale. "This is a significant step forward for our profession and will provide a strong incentive for people to pursue careers as public educators."
He says MTS remains committed to building on this agreement to further benefit all its members, which includes school leaders, clinicians, and substitutes.