Quebec schools enforce formal address rules as part of new student conduct codes

Students across Quebec are returning to classrooms under new rules that require them to address teachers and school staff using formal titles, as part of a province-wide push to reinforce civility in schools.

The Quebec government announced last year that both public and private schools had until January to adopt updated codes of conduct. These codes must require students to address teachers as “Mr.” or “Ms.” and, in French-language settings, use the formal form of “you” when speaking to staff.

The conduct codes are also required to outline expectations for respectful behaviour between students, proper care of school property, and recognition of equality between men and women. The changes apply to elementary and secondary schools, with each institution responsible for defining how the rules will be enforced.

André Bernier, president of an association representing school principals and administrators, said he generally supports the use of formal language, arguing it reinforces respect within schools. However, he noted concerns about the timing of the rollout, saying the rules would have been easier to implement at the start of the school year rather than mid-year. He also questioned whether the requirements are appropriate for kindergarten-aged students.

Schools have discretion to determine disciplinary measures for students who fail to follow the code of conduct, with possible responses ranging from verbal warnings to suspension or expulsion, depending on the severity and frequency of violations.