Parents still in charge amid health curriculum overhaul: premier

Manitoba’s Premier, Wab Kinew, has vowed to maintain parents’ right to withdraw their children from health class if the subject matter conflicts with their personal beliefs. This stance remains unchanged despite the province’s recent overhaul of the phys-ed and health curriculum. Kinew, speaking alongside a crowd of teenagers at Kelvin High School, emphasized that parents are their children’s primary educators and that this will always be the case.

The new curriculum, set to be implemented in September 2028, introduces lessons on topics like establishing boundaries in relationships, recognizing online luring tactics, and the link between exercise, nutrition, and mental health. Lillian Klausen, president of the Manitoba Teachers’ Society, stressed the importance of collaboration between teachers and parents to educate children on developing healthy relationships and making informed decisions.

Jennifer Watt, an education professor at the University of Manitoba, expressed disappointment that the government isn’t fully endorsing the new curriculum. She argued that students can’t be protected from all differing viewpoints, and there’s a need to face these fears and learn from diverse perspectives. Watt is currently researching the school system’s role in combating violence against women and LGBTTQ+ people.

While some religious schools, including one on a Hutterite colony, are participating in the pilot program, concerns have been raised by an online petition with over 13,200 signatures. Critics argue that the changes to sex-ed and the uncertainty regarding opt-outs represent an ideological push promoting progressive world views on young minds. Kinew countered that there will always be a range of viewpoints, and the focus should remain on promoting respect and safety for all residents.