Empowering Students Through Media Literacy and Journalism

An innovative Media Literacy Platform designed to strengthen critical thinking, journalistic skills, and foster student’s engagement with local news is now available for educators and learners. Developed collaboratively by the Winnipeg Free Press, Winnipeg School Division and Manitoba Government, the platform has been in the works since 2024, and its launch reflects a shared commitment to fostering media literacy across classrooms.

During the press conference students asked questions to Matt Henderson, WSD Superintendent and Tracy Schmidt Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning.In a changing digital world with misinformation on the rise, the need for students to critically navigate the modern media landscape grows. To address this challenge, the project gathered educators, journalists, editors, government departments, and international news organizations to research, develop, and identify best practices, trends, and concerns in media and media literacy. The result is a comprehensive collection of resources and tools to approach media literacy in the classroom, initiate student journalism, and understand the influence of media on community cohesion, public discourse, and democratic participation.The platform offers opportunities for students to showcase their work through an interactive newsstand.

Some of the current features include journalism startup guides tailored for all grade levels, mini-lessons on journalistic integrity through “Free Press 101,” and a custom-built web app for student newspapers. Teachers can upload student work to a newsstand for wider readership or even submit it for publication in the Free Press. A booking portal allows schools to organize newsroom tours and journalist visits, while a searchable library of curriculum-aligned articles enables integration into classroom learning. The platform also encourages interschool collaboration, giving students opportunities to interview peers from across Manitoba, further expanding their perspective on storytelling and media literacy.

Tracy Schmidt, Minister of Education, answered questions from The Earl Grey Press students.A press conference was held to celebrate the launch of the platform, featuring remarks from Tracy Schmidt, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning, Paul Samyn, Editor of the Free Press, and Matt Henderson, WSD Superintendent. Following the presentations, students from the Earl Grey School newsroom had the opportunity to interview the Minister and presenters, giving young journalists hands-on experience in reporting and engaging directly with leaders in education and media.

David Wall, Media Literacy Specialist from the Division, who was directly involved in the project, says the platform ultimately gives learners “tools to navigate today’s complex digital media landscape with confidence, and develops the curiosity, and critical awareness needed to be future ready.”

David Wall, Media Literacy Specialist who collaborated in the project.Educators and students are expected to benefit significantly from the platform’s rollout. By engaging with media as both creators and critical consumers, students will develop essential skills such as evaluating sources, identifying bias, and discerning credible information from misinformation. The platform fosters civic awareness and student agency, supporting learners in becoming thoughtful, skilled communicators who can contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Ultimately, the collaboration between the Winnipeg School Division, Free Press, and Manitoba Government sets the stage for a province-wide network of young journalists and critical thinkers, prepared to understand and shape Manitoba’s media landscape with confidence and integrity.

Check out some of the work of our students, in the Media Literacy Platform.