Hanover School Division trustees have complied with Education Minister Tracy Schmidt’s request to revoke a directive that disregarded the mature minor status in all division facilities. According to Manitoba regulations, individuals aged 16 and above are recognized as mature minors with the authority to make independent healthcare choices unless proven incapable.
At a school board assembly in Steinbach, the trustees voted to retract the directive on Tuesday. Schmidt emphasized the importance of ensuring every Manitoban has adequate access to healthcare, including within schools like those in Steinbach. Vice-chair Jeff Friesen dissented, stating that parents have expressed a desire for teachers and counselors to involve them whenever their children seek assistance.
Friesen clarified that the directive was intended for educational staff, not nurses at the health clinic in Steinbach Regional Secondary School. Schmidt addressed the issue of whether the mature minor designation and associated privacy extend to teachers, emphasizing ongoing collaboration with school divisions to guarantee students have necessary healthcare access.
In response to concerns about parental involvement, Schmidt reassured that the government will uphold the bond between parents and their children. Despite disappointment over the lack of a meeting following the passing of the directive, Schmidt agreed to engage with the Hanover school board again.
Board chair Dallas Wiebe declined an interview but referenced a letter sent to Schmidt during the meeting. He expressed hope that the upcoming meeting with the minister would clarify the boundaries between privacy and parental notification, especially in light of the complexities arising from the existence of a medical clinic at SRSS.
Schmidt highlighted the significance of parental engagement, noting the upcoming school board elections in October as an opportunity for stakeholders to engage with trustee candidates regarding their priorities.