Teachers and educational assistants in Manitoba say violent behaviour from students is becoming more frequent and severe, prompting calls for stronger support systems and staffing levels.

Incidents include biting, punching, spitting and verbal abuse, often involving students with complex needs. Staff unions and educators report feeling overwhelmed and unsafe, particularly in classrooms lacking adequate mental health resources and proper training.

The Manitoba Teachers' Society and CUPE Manitoba say school divisions need to track incidents more thoroughly and provide clearer, safer intervention protocols. They warn that burnout and staff shortages will worsen unless meaningful changes are made.