Addressing sexual violence in Quebec schools ‘extremely high priority,’ education minister clarifies
Posted February 12, 2026 2:02 pm.
Last Updated February 12, 2026 2:16 pm.
After initially reacting cautiously, the Legault government acknowledged that the lack of seriousness reported by the National Student Ombudsman in addressing sexual violence in schools was a serious concern.
In its annual report published Wednesday, the National Student Ombudsman concluded that the reported situations are being normalized and that the measures in place are insufficient.
In a press scrum Thursday morning, Education Minister Sonia LeBel recognized that the report raises issues in some school service centres.
She added, however, that she is hopeful that school boards will adapt and intends to monitor the situation closely.
But in a later telephone interview with La Presse Canadienne, she clarified that it was an “extremely high-priority issue.” According to her, the situation “must be a cause for concern.”
“It’s clear that this is important,” the minister insisted.
She reiterated that tools and training are available to staff and that updating the violence and bullying prevention plan is a legal requirement.
“Now, this needs to be implemented in all our schools,” she added.
–This report by La Presse Canadienne was translated by CityNews
