Students at a Montreal secondary school are rallying against ineffective math and science instruction from a disorganized teacher. Frustrated by his methods and recent outbursts, they formed a “student union” to voice their concerns. Complaints about his teaching style have persisted since 2021, prompting students to seek private tutoring for better results. While acknowledging the broader issue of teacher shortages, they emphasize the need for improved educational support and quality instruction to ensure their academic success.
Students Unite Against Ineffective Teaching
Frustration is mounting among students at a secondary school in Montreal, who are struggling with poor instruction in math and science from a teacher they describe as disorganized and out of touch with their needs. For four years, students have been grappling with the challenges posed by this teacher, who they believe has hindered their academic progress and forced many to seek private tutoring.
Doryan Pansanel, a 16-year-old student, shares the sentiment of many in his class: “Half of the class thinks they won’t pass their math and won’t graduate this year.” In response to their ongoing struggles, students at Robert-Gravel, a theater-focused school in the Mile-End neighborhood, have recently banded together to form a “student union.”
Escalating Concerns and Student Actions
The situation took a turn for the worse on October 10, when the teacher reportedly lost his temper, calling students “idiots” and throwing a marker, which shattered on impact. This incident prompted around twenty fourth and fifth-year students to gather outside the school to express their concerns. They later sent a collective letter outlining their grievances to the school administration, the Student Protector, and the Montreal School Service Center (CSSDM).
Since the teacher’s arrival in 2021, complaints have been consistent, with students alleging that his teaching methods lack structure and clarity. In science class, he has made controversial claims, including the belief that God created the Earth and stating that students shouldn’t have children before marriage.
Students like Mika Dupuis, who barely passed an assessment with a score of 49%, found success only after seeking help from a private tutor, ultimately achieving an 80% on the ministry exam. Others have expressed frustration at the inconsistency in grading and the teacher’s authoritative tactics, which include randomly dismissing students from class.
Despite their grievances, students acknowledge the broader issue of teacher shortages in schools. “We’re not angry at him [the teacher],” Mika states, adding that he is not a bad person but simply lacks the necessary skills.
The CSSDM has responded to the situation, emphasizing that the behavior reported by students is unacceptable and that they are currently addressing the matter with the teacher involved. Alain Perron, a representative from the CSSDM, confirmed that tutoring support is already in place and will continue to be offered to assist students.
As students continue to advocate for their right to a quality education, they hope that their voices will be heard and that positive changes will be implemented to enhance their learning environment.