It is best to get one’s facts right before misinforming the public about what the English School Boards are responsible for.
Acknowledging Quebec as a Nation would not be within a school board’s mandate nor would it be advisable to teach content without the blessing of the Ministry of Education. Commissioners do not have control over the curriculum.
“Quebec is a nation” is a phrase that has been in textbooks. I can attest to this reality. Taken out of context, as it has by Mr. Eustace, it is a piece of information twisting the minds of our youth. However as part of a 2010 Secondary 4 history exam (a government driven exam), is it considered propaganda? Or is it a legitimate question? Is it true or false or both true and false?
In my opinion it all depends on how the teacher explains the concept in the classroom and how it is related to social trends and modern issues. This is definitely a topic that will evoke discussion and promote critical thinking concerning the changing fabric of our political reality.
The Federal Government in 2006 passed a motion recognizing the people, les “Québécois” as a nation “within” a united Canada. Does this concept not deserve recognition in the classroom?
The mandate of the Council of Commissioners is to oversee the budget and its distribution to our schools and centers while constantly trying to improve the services provided to our clientele.
Instead of revisiting the year 2010, let’s focus on how we can make our schools a better place to learn now and in the future and have the freedom to discuss and debate social affairs and put aside our own limited vision, fears and ideologies.
Angela Nolet
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