Dozens of students at a high school in Saint-Jérôme, Quebec, have faced suspensions after a day of unrest and vandalism last Friday. The Centre de services scolaire de la Rivière-du-Nord (CSSRDN) suspended 78 students from École polyvalente Saint-Jérôme for the remainder of the week. Additional disciplinary measures may be taken against the involved students, as mentioned by René Brisson, the CSSRDN director.
Brisson explained that chaos ensued during a lunch break when seventh and eighth-grade students engaged in disruptive activities like running, throwing garbage cans, and gathering in large groups, culminating in the activation of the fire alarm. Principal Nathalie Flamand addressed parents in a letter, condemning disorderly conduct, acts of vandalism, and disruptive behavior.
To investigate the students’ actions thoroughly, the school canceled classes on Monday and implemented special security measures on Tuesday, including increased police presence and security officers inside the school. The school also adjusted staff schedules to ensure maximum supervision during breaks and transitions.
In response to the situation, Nancy Chartrand, a parent near the school, expressed concern about the police presence and rumors of a potential repeat incident, prompting her to pick up her children. While there were social media calls for blockades similar to the protests in France, Brisson stated that drawing a direct link between the events was challenging due to the spontaneous nature of the disruptions and the absence of clear demands or spokespersons.
The school’s actions have garnered attention and prompted discussions about the circumstances leading to the suspensions and the need for increased security measures to prevent future disruptions.
