Quebec Education Minister Launches Investigation into IDF Soldier Talks at Montreal Jewish Schools
Quebec Education Minister Sonia LeBel has initiated a formal investigation into two Montreal Jewish schools following reports that they invited soldiers from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to speak with students. The situation has been described as "extremely concerning" by the ministry, which is examining whether Herzliah and Bialik high schools complied with laws governing public funding for private educational institutions.
Ensuring Compliance with Funding Regulations
Minister LeBel emphasized that verifications are currently underway to determine if the schools adhered to regulations stating that public funding granted to private schools must be used exclusively for educational services. In an official statement, she highlighted that these institutions "have a code of ethics stating that all staff members who are in contact with students must demonstrate political neutrality, prudence and objectivity."
The investigation was prompted by a LaPresse report published on Thursday morning, which revealed that the schools had invited current and former IDF members to address students on more than a dozen occasions since the fall of 2023. This revelation has sparked significant debate about the appropriate use of public funds and the maintenance of political neutrality within educational settings.
Details of the School Visits
According to social media posts from the schools, various IDF personnel have visited classrooms to share their experiences. A December 2024 Facebook post from Herzliah described a visit from a Montrealer who joined the IDF in 2022, who spoke to his sister's class "to share his inspiring journey." The post elaborated on his transition from Jewish elementary school to a non-Jewish high school, his strengthened connection to the Jewish community, and his participation in the March of the Living.
Another post from April 2024 highlighted a visit by Tovia Roness, identified as a combat medic in the IDF, who shared "powerful stories from the past 10 months of service." The post described the encounter as "an honest, moving and truly inspiring" experience that offered personal insights into resilience and Jewish heroism.
Bialik High School also hosted former IDF staff sergeant Jonny Daniels in September 2024, where he discussed Jewish identity, heritage, and the current state of the war in Israel while sharing stories about his time with Israeli leaders and Holocaust survivors.
Responses from Community and Political Figures
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) responded to The Gazette's inquiries on behalf of the schools, stating that Jewish schools in Quebec have "been the subject of misleading allegations" for several months. CIJA argued that La Presse is contributing to conspiracy theories by "portraying extracurricular cultural and athletic activities — privately funded and comparable to those organized in many schools — through a military lens."
CIJA further noted that "Israel is a democracy where national service is mandatory" and questioned why Israelis who have served their country should not participate in cultural exchanges in Montreal, especially given official ties between Israeli and Canadian armed forces.
Political reactions have been strong, with Québec solidaire co-spokesperson Ruba Ghazal calling the school visits "outrageous" and advocating for the government to cut the schools' funding. She reiterated her party's longstanding position against public money going to private religious schools.
Parti Québécois spokesperson Pascal Paradis also condemned the situation, stating that "soldiers, members of a foreign army, coming into a subsidized school that is part of the Quebec school network — that doesn't work." He emphasized that schools should be sanctuaries where students can learn free from external influences and lobbies.
Broader Context and Legislative Background
This investigation occurs within the context of Bill 9, an expansion of Quebec's secularism law tabled in November, which proposes phasing out government funding for private religious schools over three years. The proposed legislation would allow schools to maintain funding only if they meet specific criteria:
- No religious activities during class hours (extracurricular activities would be permitted)
- Students and staff cannot be selected based on religious beliefs
- Teachers and staff cannot wear religious symbols (with grandfather clause exceptions)
Bialik High School responded to LaPresse with a written statement asserting that the activities in question "were ... not part of the activities covered by public funding" and that "we believe it is normal for us to receive individuals who can help maintain the ties between our ancestral lands and our youth."
The schools themselves did not respond directly to The Gazette's request for comment, leaving the investigation to proceed as Minister LeBel's team examines the compliance of these institutions with Quebec's educational funding and neutrality standards.
