First Public Hearing in Manitoba Teacher Discipline | Winnipeg News

For the first time ever, Manitoba is holding a public videoconference hearing to address serious allegations against teacher Janice Wen Ying Ma — a landmark moment in the province’s teacher disciplinary system. This new, transparent process, launched over 18 months ago with the teacher registry, brings independence and public accountability to misconduct cases, previously handled internally by school divisions. A three-member panel — including a teacher, non-teacher, and school boards rep — will hear arguments from both the commissioner, Noni Classen, and Ma, with legal counsel allowed for both sides. Child advocates see this as vital for justice and fairness, while critics note the delay since the registry’s start. Another teacher, Joshua Braaksma, also faces a private written hearing, and both have had their teaching certificates suspended. The commissioner has imposed a publication ban to protect the minor involved in Ma’s case. Despite the pace, Classen’s investigative background is viewed as a strong step toward restoring public trust in the system. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4a79359f9af581b6