Manitoba’s Winnipeg School Division saw a dramatic spike of 829 students in the 2024–25 school year — the province’s largest increase — largely due to an influx of newcomers, including refugees. Superintendent Matt Henderson cited global conflict and climate change as key factors behind this growth, particularly impacting schools in Elmwood and areas near the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba.
The Louis Riel School Division also faced pressure, with 412 new students and overcrowding issues in French immersion programs. A new school in Sage Creek, opening in September, is already expected to hit capacity.
Smaller divisions felt the impact, too. Western School Division in Morden saw a 5.1% jump with 113 new students, attributed to immigration. Superintendent Stephen Ross highlighted how the demographic shift also brought skilled labour, enriching the community workforce.
Pinawa’s Whiteshell School District reported the highest percentage growth at 13.8%, thanks to education reforms and outdoor-focused learning. Independent schools also grew by 5.5%, adding 1,038 students, driven largely by faith-based programming.
Source: Swifteradio.com
