Quebec students are returning to school after the winter break with new rules in place. Elementary and high school students in the province must now use formal language when speaking to teachers and staff. In English schools, this involves using titles like Mr. or Ms., while in French schools, students are expected to use the formal ‘vous’ instead of ‘tu.’
Schools are required to emphasize the value of respect in their codes of conduct, which parents must acknowledge by signing. The change has been welcomed by Katherine Korakakis, president of the English Parents’ Committee Association of Quebec, who sees it as a positive step towards fostering respect between students and educators.
Julie Blais Comeau, a business etiquette specialist, also supports the use of formal language in the classroom, emphasizing that it teaches students the importance of respect and provides a framework for appropriate behavior and communication.
However, Heidi Yetman, President of the Quebec Provincial Association of Teachers (QPAT), believes that while respect is crucial, simply enforcing formal language may not address the underlying issues causing increased violence in schools. Yetman stresses the need for additional resources to help students, particularly those struggling with behavioral challenges.
Quebec Education Minister Sonia Lebel defended the new rule, stating that it is intended to enhance the school environment rather than serve as a cure-all solution. She emphasized the importance of school administrators using discretion in implementing the regulations to ensure they are beneficial without creating unintended problems.
While the formal language rule is part of a broader effort to promote respect and civility in schools, the government recognizes the ongoing challenges and is working to provide additional support and resources to address issues of violence and behavioral difficulties.