Two years ago, in these same columns, we defended the early childhood educational model during a strike in the CPE (early childhood centers). Without hesitation, we are speaking out again to defend Quebec public schools. By reestablishing a few essential facts, we wish to counter certain preconceived ideas that our children themselves may have brought home: “teachers want more money! “.
It is a necessary and perhaps even historic strike, where teachers and support staff are alone in defending public schools. It seems far away to us, the time of the demonstrations which massively brought together parents and educational staff… Teachers are sounding the alarm and are not doing it for simply financial reasons, but in the name of a model, in the name of the role that Public school has to hold in our society. This fight honors them, it challenges us, even more, it obliges us.
The true foundation of our society, public schools are a pillar in the fight against social inequalities. Its function is to integrate all children into Quebec society, whatever their mother tongue, their origin, their abilities, their challenges, their history. In principle, the public school does not select anyone, it welcomes everyone without distinction and strives to make a place for the student and to support them in their academic progress, in the learning of French, mathematics, but also in the transmission of culture.
For our young children, school is there, in a way, to “hook them into education”. It also offers a second chance to allow older people to hang on to it. Finally, for adults, it is a gateway via French courses in particular. Public schools therefore aim to provide equal opportunities for success. The educational program is common, the inclusive pedagogy is supplemented by support services adapted to children with challenges: reception classes, speech therapy, special education, orthopedagogy, psychology, public health.
We have every reason to be proud of our public school. However, it can only succeed in its mission with a fair distribution of educational resources throughout the territory. Even more, with equal access to all the resources necessary for an academic career adapted to the needs of all students. However, many schools do not have sufficient educational services or are devoid of sports or play equipment in the absence of donations from parents.
For too long, public schools have been undermined due to chronic underfunding. We are going through a vocations crisis, a labor shortage. Working conditions represent a daily difficulty, for the hiring of professors, as well as for the recruitment of students. The buildings are often dilapidated, the classes are increasingly numerous, the workload – poorly recognized – is immense: preparation of lessons, time in class, corrections, meetings and discussions with parents, educational innovations, work in partnership with teachers. specialists. Sometimes teachers have to fill the shoes of missing specialists. This pressure weakens health at work.
And yet, despite this more than difficult context, the teachers on strike have not resigned, they wish to be able to accomplish their mission. We are entitled to wonder if it is normal for their profession to be so devalued. Let us together recognize the essential role played by teaching, educational, support and maintenance staff, without forgetting administrative staff, in the development of children. Let’s do it by offering them suitable working conditions as well as a salary commensurate with the tasks and responsibilities that fall to people who have a leading role in the education of our children.
We regret that their demands have still not been heard. Since November 23, 2023, many public school staff have gone on an indefinite strike. This situation creates problems of family organization, economic and social inequalities, and gender inequalities. After the COVID-19 pandemic, this strike leaves many children and parents in psychological distress. This is why we, mothers of young children, want to: publicly support the staff of Quebec public schools; ask the government of Quebec to grant their request in order to resolve a conflict that has lasted too long.