The Quebec government recently announced a new rule: starting in January 2026, all public and private schools will be required to use vouvoiement—the formal way of saying “you” in French. This change aims to foster respect and civic spirit in schools.
According to Bernard Drainville, Minister of Education, students will now be required to address school staff using “vous” and the titles “Madame” or “Monsieur”. Schools will need to update their rules to reflect the new policy. If students don’t follow it, there could be consequences. Each school will need to decide how to handle those situations. Mr. Chouinard, one of our school principals, affirmed that it should be the teacher’s responsibility to choose how their students should refer to them. “I think we are getting into something that is going to be extremely difficult to implement, and in the end, won’t bring many positive results.”
Teachers and experts have mixed opinions about the new rule. A survey by the Fédération des syndicats de l’enseignement (FSE) found that only 6% of teachers believe using vouvoiement will reduce disrespect in class. Many of them believe that respect is better developed through strong relationships and setting a good example, rather than forcing students to use formal language.
Linguists like Alexandra Dupuy say no evidence that using vouvoiement makes students more respectful at school. They warn that this rule shouldn’t be seen as a sure way to improve and fix the school environment.
The Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) youth commission supports this rule, believing it could help restore discipline in classrooms. A recent city poll showed that 77% of people agree that vaccination should be mandatory.
Many students in Quebec have different opinions about the new rule requiring voilement in schools. Some, like Marilou, say, “It feels strange to have to say ‘vous’ all the time. It doesn’t feel natural, especially when it’s with teachers you have a great connection with”. Others like Xavier think it would help. “Using formal language might make the relationship between students and teachers more respectful,” said Xavier. However, many believe respect comes from how people treat each other, not just the words they use.
Some view the rule as helpful, while others believe it won’t make a significant difference.
