Quebec Suspends Teachers Amid Controversy Over Religious Influence in Schools

A Montreal elementary school is at the center of a debate on secularism after allegations of religious practices and abuse surfaced, prompting government intervention.

Eleven teachers at Bedford Elementary in Montreal have been suspended following allegations of introducing religious practices and creating a toxic environment.
The Quebec Ministry of Education's report detailed issues of intimidation, neglect, and abuse by a group of teachers, primarily of North African descent.
The controversy has reignited discussions about Bill 21, Quebec's secularism law, with calls for stricter enforcement in public schools.
Political leaders, including Premier François Legault, have expressed concern over the alleged religious influence, emphasizing the need for secularism in education.
Critics argue that the focus on religion distracts from systemic issues, highlighting the government's delayed response to the school's problems.