Quebec school service centers face staffing and infrastructure challenges

School service centers in Quebec are facing varying levels of preparation for the new academic year. In Sept-Îles, the Centre de services scolaire du Fer reports a successful start with all positions filled and budgets aligned. However, officials note that recruitment remains a fragile challenge due to ongoing labor shortages that can leave vacancies when staff depart mid-year.

In the Outaouais region, school service centers face different hurdles, including infrastructure delays and government-imposed pauses on certain projects. To address space shortages, modular units are being utilized. The region also faces a shortage of approximately 90 positions; officials have assured that every class will be supervised by an adult, even if some staff lack specific teaching certifications.

Additionally, educational authorities in Outaouais are working to establish policies regarding the use of artificial intelligence in schools. On a positive note, the graduation rate in the Outaouais region has reached the Quebec average at 80 percent.