Quebec students returning to school after the winter break are facing new regulations this year. Elementary and high school students are now required to use formal language when speaking to teachers and staff. In the English school system, this entails using titles like Mr. or Ms., while in French-language schools, students are expected to use the formal ‘vous’ instead of ‘tu.’
Schools must also emphasize respect in their codes of conduct, with parents signing off on these codes to acknowledge their awareness. Katherine Korakakis, president of the English Parents’ Committee Association of Quebec, supports the change, saying it will foster respect between students and school staff.
Julie Blais Comeau, a business etiquette specialist, views the use of formal language in classrooms as beneficial for teaching important life skills. According to Blais Comeau, using ‘vous’ instead of ‘tu’ signifies respect and helps frame interactions and relationships, guiding appropriate words and behaviors.
Heidi Yetman, President of the Quebec Provincial Association of Teachers (QPAT), notes a rise in school violence since the pandemic. While emphasizing the importance of respect, Yetman doubts that enforcing formality will address the root causes of violence. She argues that more resources are needed to assist children struggling with behavioral issues.
In response, Quebec Education Minister Sonia Lebel defends the new rule as a tool to enhance school climate, similar to the cellphone ban. Lebel stresses the importance of school administrators exercising judgment when implementing these regulations. She acknowledges concerns about potential confusion with young children and non-binary teachers but trusts school communities to handle these situations professionally.
Efforts to combat school violence include increased funding and staff recruitment, although Lebel recognizes ongoing challenges in meeting the needs of schools.