Mathew Gustafson

The committee reviewed the 2026-2027 school year calendar and discussed research requests, including the Canadian Student Alcohol and Drugs Survey. Confidential matters were addressed, and updated division cards were presented. A primary focus was the review of upcoming high school trips to Europe; due to increased risks associated with the Middle East conflict, the committee recommended rescinding previous approvals for trips scheduled by Vincent Massey High School and École secondaire Neelin High School.

The Board approved a research request for the Canadian Student Alcohol and Drugs Survey, the purchase of four school buses, and the school year calendar for 2026-2027. They rescinded a previous motion regarding laptop procurement and approved a new quote for 800 laptop computers. Additionally, the Board authorized concrete stair repairs at two schools, approved two promissory notes for school infrastructure projects, and ratified service purchase agreements with Prairie Mountain Health for occupational therapy and speech language services. Students and staff also presented highlights from the One Manitoba Youth Summit.

The Board of Trustees discussed various governance matters, including presentations from delegations regarding an Anti-Islamophobia Action Plan and universal screening for reading difficulties. Key administrative and financial decisions included the approval of research requests for student surveys, the purchase of school buses, and the rescission of previous motions concerning student travel due to safety risks. Senior administration provided updates on school events, scholarship agreement changes, and staffing reports.

The board conducted an in-camera discussion regarding student issues, personnel, property, and board operations. During the public session, the board discussed communications regarding the Brandon Conservatory Chorale, senior administration highlights including student participation in the Brandon University Jazz Festival and the proclamation of Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month, updates on substitute teacher availability, and revisions to the Respectful Workplace administrative procedure. Additionally, the board approved the 2026-2027 Financial Budget and 2026 Special Levy, received committee reports, heard delegations concerning universal screening for reading difficulties and lunch supervision, and passed late motions to rescind previous travel approvals for high school student trips due to safety concerns related to the Middle East conflict.

The Board meeting included discussions on several key items: the approval of research requests for the Canadian Student Alcohol and Drugs Survey, the purchase of school buses from the School Bus Capital Reserve, and the rescinding of previous motions regarding student travel due to safety risks related to the Middle East Conflict. The Board also addressed the 2026-2027 final budget and special levy, reviewed staff reports on student suspensions and off-site school activities, and discussed committee reports regarding education and community relations, finance, and personnel policy.