Changes coming at three Montreal-area schools after investigation into ‘climate of fear’

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Education Minister Bernard Drainville is requesting new measures at three Montreal-area schools after an investigation into Bedford Elementary School raised concerns about the physical and psychological safety of students.

The investigation found “significant shortcomings” at the school related to the teaching of certain subjects as well as a climate of fear and intimidation attributed to a “dominant clan.” Eleven teachers will be investigated.

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“School exists for our students,” Drainville said in a statement Friday. “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 taught by the group in question, which was mainly, but not entirely, composed of people of North African origin. The subjects were 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, 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. Changes 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 investigation 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 will ask the management of the Centre de services scolaire de Montréal (CSSDM) 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.

The CSSDM, meanwhile, said in a release it will fully collaborate with the recommendations for and investigation into Bedford Elementary School, noting the service centre’s general director, Isabelle Gélinas, has brought concerns about governance and climate at other schools to the attention of the education ministry before.

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The CSSDM also said it intervened several times at Bedford over problems with teaching and relationships between staff.

“This investigation highlights unacceptable educational practices that have taken place over the years and the importance of reporting inappropriate situations without delay,” the news release reads. “Inadequate gestures and words do not have their place in schools, towards students or staff members. Any person from the educational community is invited to report them so that appropriate measures can be taken as quickly as possible.”

The service centre said it remains vigilant and that it will mobilize psychosocial intervention teams at the school.

It also said it would collaborate with the ministry while it carries out verifications at the other schools.

“Students and staff at the concerned schools will be entitled to sustained and caring support,” the release reads. “Let us also emphasize that the CSSDM is committed to meeting the needs of students and providing a harmonious and safe environment.”

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