The Reality
How many religious schools in Quebec receive government funding?
50
If funding is removed, what will likely happen to tuition?
It will increase
What does removing funding suggest about religion in education?
It should be private
What might happen to class sizes if funding is redirected to public schools?
They could decrease
What do some parents value about religious schools besides religion?
Community / safety / smaller classes
How much funding do these schools receive annually?
$160 million
What might families lose if they can’t afford higher tuition?
Access to religious schools
What “hidden curriculum” might students learn in a fully secular system?
Religion is less valued in public life
What kind of support staff could increase in public schools?
Aides / psycho-educators
Why do some argue funding should be removed?
Public money shouldn’t support religion
What law limits religious symbols in public schools but not private?
Bill 21
What could public schools gain if funding is redirected?
More resources (staff, support, smaller classes)
What contradiction exists between funding and policy?
Restricting religion while funding it
What might happen to some private religious schools if funding is cut?
They may lose students or close down the school.
Why do others argue funding should stay?
Protects choice and access
What percentage of funding goes toward the Quebec curriculum?
60%
What immediate pressure could this put on public schools?
More students / overcrowding
Why might “secular” schools still reflect Christianity?
Calendars/holidays are based on Christian norms
How could this affect teachers’ workloads in public schools?
Increase (more students, pressure)
What sense do religious schools provide for students?
Belonging and safety
What does the remaining 40% of funding support?
Religious education (privately funded)
What is the key trade-off in this policy?
Equity in public schools vs. access/choice in private religious schools
What does this reveal about so-called “neutral” systems?
They can still reflect dominant cultures
How could hiring practices change in private schools?
Less focus on religion, more on qualifications
What bigger issue does this debate raise about education?
Equity vs. diversity (or equality vs. choice)