Dimitris Ilias
LJI Journalist

Quebec is taking a hard stance against school violence with the launch of its first-ever Violence and Bullying Prevention Week, aiming to instill respect and accountability in students across the province. This initiative is part of a broader government plan to combat rising aggression in schools, a problem that has hit diverse neighborhoods like Parc-Extension particularly hard.
Quebec’s $30 Million War on School Violence
In response to mounting concerns, the Quebec government has committed $30 million over five years to fight school violence and bullying. This funding is set to roll out across schools to implement concrete prevention strategies, enhance staff training, and create safer learning environments. The initiative also includes an official Reference Framework and Guide for Schools, providing educators with clear protocols to manage student behavioral issues.
The investment signals a shift from passive acknowledgment to active intervention, as government officials seek to address the root causes of school violence.
Why Parc-Extension Schools Are on the Frontline
Parc-Extension, one of Montreal’s most densely populated and culturally diverse neighborhoods, faces unique challenges in tackling school violence. With a high number of immigrant and refugee families, many students enter the school system dealing with economic hardships, cultural barriers, and past traumas. These factors can contribute to tensions that, when left unchecked, escalate into aggressive behavior toward both peers and school staff.
A 2023 report on school violence in Quebec highlighted a worrying trend: incidents of aggression in schools are underreported and, in some cases, brushed aside to avoid administrative headaches. This reality is particularly concerning for Parc-Extension educators, who often deal with unpredictable classroom dynamics.
The Fight for a Safer Classroom—What’s Next?
Quebec’s latest initiative aims to change that narrative. By rolling out standardized intervention protocols, the province is ensuring that schools, particularly those in high-tension areas like Parc-Extension, have the tools and resources to tackle violence head-on.
With these measures in place, school staff will no longer be left guessing on how to handle violent incidents, and parents will be made fully aware of disciplinary actions when necessary. The goal is not only punishment but prevention, with a strong emphasis on mental health support, de-escalation training, and student accountability.
Will It Work?
As Quebec moves forward with its action plan, the real test will be in its execution. Will this initiative lead to lasting change, or will it be another well-intended policy lost in the shuffle of bureaucracy?