Lessons from Manitoba’s Public Schools Finance Board
September 01, 2025
Canadian Architect features two Stantec-designed projects in its look at innovative, client-centered, and cost-effective schools in Manitoba
The Manitoba Public Schools Finance Board Act (1967) first created the PSFB as a work group within the Department of Education, reporting to the Deputy Minister. In its first decades, the principal functions of the PSFB were administering a capital support program for education capital projects, consulting with school divisions to assist in developing and maintaining a five-year capital plan and operating plan, and providing financing structure to support capital improvements for school facilities.
Over time, the number of school divisions consolidated from over 100 (including many in rural areas with two- or four-room schoolhouses) to the 37 that exist today. In tandem, the major capital budget for PSFB evolved to include separate planning and funding streams for new schools, major additions/renovations, special program initiatives, mechanical system upgrades, structural remediation and building envelope upgrades, barrier-free accommodation upgrades, and portable classroom installations.
The Stantec-designed École communautaire St. Georges gymnasium/multi-purpose room addition and École South Point School are included in this look at Manitoba schools.
