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Education Minister Bernard Drainville is requesting verifications at three Montreal-area schools after an investigation report into Bedford Elementary School raised concerns about the physical and psychological safety of students.
The report in question found some issues at the school, including “significant shortcomings” related to the teaching of some subjects as well as a climate of fear and intimidation. Eleven teachers will be investigated.
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“School exists for our students,” Drainville said in a statement. “Their interests and needs must take precedence at all times and in all schools in Quebec. I will not compromise on this. It is clear that this is not the case at Bedford School and that is why we must act and take strong actions to change things.”
More specifically, the investigation revealed problematic behaviours toward both students and staff, including shouting and humiliation techniques, intimidation, insubordination and incivility. It also said some subjects were either not taught or were barely being taught at the school, notably oral communication, science and technology, ethics and religious culture, and sex education.
Issues were also raised about governance at the school, including some teachers interfering with management and the governing board.
Following the investigation into Bedford, information about similar problems — mainly concerning the climate and possible interference in governance bodies — were flagged at St-Pascal-Baylon Elementary School, Bienville Elementary School and La Voie High School. Verifications will be carried out at all three.
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The following additional measures were announced by Drainville on Friday:
Two chaperones will be sent to Bedford school to develop an action plan to restore a healthy climate and ensure the competence of teachers and find ways to correct interference with management. The plan must be delivered by Nov. 30.
Eleven teachers flagged in the report as having concerning behaviour will be submitted to investigative committees, which will be tasked with figuring out whether they “committed serious misconduct or an act derogatory to the honour or dignity of the teaching profession.” Their authorization to teach could be maintained, suspended or revoked depending on the findings.
Last, Drainville is asking the management of the Centre de services scolaire de Montréal to use all measures to ensure governing boards respect their obligations toward students and staff.
“Restoring a healthy and safe climate in the establishments targeted by these measures is of the utmost importance,” an education ministry press release says.
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