Brookwood K‑8 School Update
The Brandon School Division has released new artist renderings of the K‑8 school under construction in Brookwood, near 34th and Richmond. Board Chair Linda Ross says the larger school will help ease Brandon’s teacher shortage — but stresses that increasing class sizes is not the answer. Ross says research shows younger students benefit from smaller class sizes. The school is expected to open next fall, as BSD continues recruiting more educational assistants.
Rural & Northern Mental‑Health Supports Expanded
The province is adding new counsellors and mobile response teams in rural and northern schools. Officials say youth mental‑health needs have risen steadily over the past three years, prompting the expansion.
Our Journey Indigenous Student Celebration
The annual Our Journey celebration of Indigenous student success takes place Friday. Due to the damp forecast, the event moves indoors to the Manitoba Room at the Keystone Centre. More than 200 students are expected, with events beginning at 8 a.m., including a Pipe Ceremony, Grand Entry, Pow Wow, BBQ, and Feast.
Assiniboine Research Funding
Brandon researcher Dr. Poonam Singh has received $99,000 in federal funding to study greener alternatives to peat in greenhouse production. Her work explores biochar and sheep‑wool waste as more sustainable growing materials. A full article is available on our website.
Youth Transit & Daylight Saving Time
Premier Wab Kinew says Manitoba’s free youth transit program is a “smarter” investment than restoring 50‑50 transit funding — and could eventually expand to seniors. Kinew is also asking Manitobans to vote on the future of daylight saving time. A link to participate is available on our site.
Record Drug Bust Update
Winnipeg police have arrested 33 people — including alleged members of a Mexican cartel and the Hells Angels — in a $37‑million drug operation. Investigators say it’s the largest drug seizure in Manitoba’s history.
City Council: Roundabout & Arbor Day
Brandon council has given first reading to a new traffic circle proposed for 34th and Manitou, supporting future development in Brookwood and Bellafield. Council also highlighted Arbor Day plans and advanced two AMM resolutions. Arbor Day is May 30, with crews preparing to plant about 800 new trees city‑wide. A free event at the Keystone Centre will feature demos and family activities.
Manitoba Expands Trade Presence in India
The province is moving ahead with hiring a new trade representative in India, aiming to strengthen ties with one of the world’s fastest‑growing economies and diversify beyond the U.S.
Volunteer Awards Launch
The Brandon Sunset Rotary is launching the first‑ever Brandon & Westman Volunteer Awards on June 17. Nominations are open now until June 3.
Heat Wave Incoming
Westman is bracing for its first heat wave of 2026 starting Sunday, with temperatures climbing from 27°C to 36°C by midweek. Strong winds are also possible as the heat builds.
