School support staff across Quebec are reporting a significant and troubling rise in violent incidents, according to their unions. The situation has become so severe that some employees are choosing to leave their jobs entirely.
A Disturbing Trend in Educational Settings
Unions representing the province's school support workers have sounded the alarm, stating that increasing numbers of their members are becoming victims of violence while on the job. These staff members, who include special education technicians, daycare educators, and other auxiliary personnel, are essential to the daily functioning of schools but are now facing unprecedented risks.
The reports indicate that the violence is not an isolated issue but rather a growing trend affecting multiple regions and school boards. The incidents are creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity for those tasked with supporting Quebec's students.
The Human and Systemic Impact
The direct consequence of this escalating problem is a loss of experienced personnel. Some support staff have reached a breaking point and have resigned from their positions, unable to continue working in an environment they perceive as unsafe. This exodus threatens to exacerbate existing staffing shortages within the education system, potentially impacting the quality of support available to students.
Beyond the immediate physical danger, the psychological toll on staff is considerable. The unions highlight that enduring threats, physical aggression, or verbal abuse leads to heightened stress, anxiety, and burnout among workers. This environment undermines the well-being of both staff and the students they serve.
Calls for Action and Safer Schools
The union statements, reported on October 21, 2025, serve as a urgent call to action for school administrators and provincial officials. They are demanding concrete measures to better protect education workers. Potential solutions being discussed include:
- Enhanced de-escalation and safety training for all staff.
- Improved reporting mechanisms and support for victims of workplace violence.
- Adequate staffing levels to prevent situations from escalating.
- Clearer protocols and consequences for addressing violent behavior.
The unions emphasize that ensuring the safety of school employees is not just a workplace issue but a fundamental prerequisite for a functional and healthy learning environment. Without immediate and effective intervention, they warn, the crisis will continue to deepen, driving away valuable staff and compromising the education system's stability.
