Premier Wab Kinew and Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Tracy Schmidt announced the two-year pilot, which introduces the new “Every Body, Every Day” policy aimed at increasing physical activity and improving student health across the province.
“This is all about getting every kid moving every day,” Kinew said, noting the initiative is designed to help students develop healthy habits, spend less time on screens and build confidence through physical activity.
Schools in Winnipeg, Brandon, and rural and northern Manitoba are participating in the pilot program. Feedback from teachers and parents will be used to refine the curriculum before broader implementation.
The updated curriculum marks the first major overhaul of Manitoba’s health and physical education program in 25 years. Alongside increased physical activity requirements, it introduces new learning outcomes addressing modern challenges facing young people, including the mental health impacts of social media and artificial intelligence, the marketing of vaping products and supplements, and safety concerns related to e-scooters.
Chief Provincial Public Health Officer Dr. Brent Roussin said the curriculum update could have a significant long-term impact on health outcomes in Manitoba by encouraging healthy lifestyles from an early age.
The curriculum also builds on Manitoba’s universal school food program by introducing basic cooking and food preparation skills for junior high and high school students, helping ensure graduates have the knowledge to prepare healthy, affordable meals.
