After 13 years leading the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine (DSFM), superintendent Alain Laberge is preparing to step away from the role, reflecting on a career marked by growth and a deep commitment to Francophone education in Manitoba.
Over a decade of leadership, growth and division-wide change
Laberge says the decision to retire comes down to timing, family and recognizing when it is time for new leadership.
“Thirteen years as a superintendent in the same school division is a lot of years. Sometimes you need changes in your own life, but also the school board needs a new leader sometimes,” Laberge says.
Looking back on more than a decade with DSFM, Laberge says he is proud of how the division progressed during his tenure.
“It’s been 13 years I’ve been doing this job and we progressed a lot. I think I brought DSFM forward.”
Among the changes highlighted were early efforts to reduce technology use in schools, including a cellphone ban implemented before provincial restrictions were introduced.
“We were pioneers when we decided to ban cellphones,” he notes.
One of the defining moments of his early career as superintendent came just months into the role, when a group of DSFM students travelling in the Dominican Republic was involved in a violent incident there in 2014.
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Laberge recalls spending the night coordinating with embassies, airlines and international contacts to safely bring approximately 30 students back to Manitoba.
“It was a crazy way of getting into my job, but I love challenges.”
The experience shaped his approach to leadership and emergency preparedness, teaching him the importance of teamwork and contingency planning.
“You need backup plans,” he says.
Despite the challenges, Laberge says education has always been his passion.
“I love school. I’ve always loved education, so I’m totally devoted to this.”
Looking forward to life beyond education
As he steps away from the role in November, Laberge says he hopes to spend more time with family, after missing moments with his daughter due to the demands of the position.
“It’s not a nine-to-five job,” says Laberge.
“I wish to spend more time with my family, my wife, my daughter, to be around a little bit more.”
He also looks forward to slowing down and enjoying simple pleasures.
“I just can’t wait to read something that isn’t pedagogical,” Laberge says with a laugh, adding sci-fi books and “a hot coffee” are high on the retirement list.
Laberge thanks staff across DSFM
Laberge also expressed gratitude to staff across the division, crediting teachers, educational assistants, custodians, secretaries and administrators for DSFM’s success.
“They work so hard to make sure that our Francophone students have the best education they can get.”
For the next superintendent, his advice is simple: take time to listen and immerse yourself in the community.
“Know your community, visit your schools, because they’re all different,” he says.
With 25 schools spread across Manitoba, Laberge says building relationships and understanding the unique needs of each community will be essential for whoever takes over the role next.
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