The network of student councils in Quebec arouses enthusiasm

Parlements at the elementary and secondary levels are a very popular activity in Quebec schools. This school-wide simulation has real citizenship education value and places young people directly at the heart of school life choices.

The Elementary Parliaments and in high school, established by the Jean-Charles-Bonenfant Foundation of the National Assembly of Quebec, aim to encourage students' participation in decisions affecting the life of their school while allowing them to learn and practice democratic values. They arouse enthusiasm throughout Quebec. With more than 600 schools registered and 40,000 members of student councils directly contacted since 2006, these integrative projects quickly became a landmark initiative in the world of education.

This activity allows the students involved to learn the role of the National Assembly and understand the importance of a student council, while promoting participation in democracy. It is a network which “democratically” puts the pupil at the center of his school life. Moreover, these Parliaments quickly became “the” grouping of student councils in Quebec, with their own identity, pedagogical approach and promotion strategy.

In addition to joining the field of the social universe of the Quebec school training program, the Parlements at the elementary and secondary levels meet the objectives of the program of complementary educational services in school life. By getting involved in their student council, young people take responsibility and develop a sense of citizenship, assert their moral sense, improve their interpersonal relationships and increase their sense of belonging to the school.

 

Support for schools

The Jean-Charles-Bonenfant Foundation of The national assembly free offer technical and professional support provided to each participating school by the coordinator of the Parliaments at the primary and secondary levels, including training taking place at the school. Teaching guides, bracelets, certificates, a poster, a flag and a banner are also given to registered schools. We can find out more in viewing this page.

Also visit the sites: Elementary Parliaments and Parliaments at the secondary level

 

Some student testimonials

“I derive great satisfaction from this because I have the impression that the students at my school were represented by a team of deputies, ministers and officials who have the interests of all at heart. I also remember that when everyone works for the same goal, we can change a lot of things. »Marc-André, student, Saint-Joseph school (Mont-Laurier) - Pierre-Neveu school board

“It's fun, because it takes work to organize an election. I would like to be elected, because I like the changes. »Lou-Félix, student, school M^gr-Douville (Farnham) - Val-des-Cerfs School Board

“This is to give chances to other people and not that it is always the same people who decide affairs. "Emmy, student, St-Majorique school (Gaspé) - Commission scolaire des Chic-Chocs

 

And adults!

According to the testimonies obtained, the experience of primary parliaments or secondary schools is proving to be profitable.

“Parliament has been an incredible motivator for our school. The Prime Minister is an excellent representative and breathes new life into our student council. »Johanne Bédard, Director of the Parchment School (Carignan) - Commission scolaire des Patriotes

“Because of Bill 56, the school administrators where I set up a student parliament have already asked student deputies to have their important contribution in the development and implementation of means to counter bullying. . It's great, the students feel that they have an important role to play, that they can make a difference and that they have a responsibility in the means that will be deployed to eliminate bullying in their school. This is great, because a student council can do a lot to improve the life of students at school, and I feel that the principals will consult them more or ask them. Isabelle Gagnon, spiritual life and community engagement animator, Commission scolaire des Grandes-Seigneuries

“The beginnings of our Parliament in elementary school are more than encouraging! Indeed, after an exciting electoral campaign (13 candidates in our small school!), Where the students took to heart to make super beautiful posters and gave fiery speeches, election day was also a success. The elected candidates and I had our first “parliamentary dinner” and elected our Prime Minister. The Council of Ministers also created five ministries: the Ministry of Bougeotte (for sports), the Ministry of 3Rs (Reduce, Recycle and Reuse), the Ministry of Cultivated Students, the Ministry of Pleasure (for school activities and outings ) and the ministry of AS (food and health). As you can see, they are very creative! »Nathalie Morin, teacher at Marie-Reine-des-Cœurs school (Pohénégamook) - Commission scolaire du Fleuve-et-des-Lacs

“Since the new Parliament has been installed, we have noticed big changes in the schools. I have the feeling that suddenly the students love school. They feel valued. Youth of 1^st secondary mingle with those of 5^e secondary. Violence in the corridors has decreased a lot. I have never seen such popular dances! »Steeve Loisel, animator of spiritual life and community involvement, versatile M^gr Sévigny (Chandler) - René-Lévesque School Board

 

By Stéphane Lévesque and Audrey Miller