The Quebec government says it is taking stock after an administrative investigation found several shortcomings at a Montreal high school where allegations of a toxic climate surfaced, following the arrest of three basketball coaches in February.
The three men were charged with various sex crimes involving at least two minors, prompting investigations at multiple levels. He put the École secondaire Saint-Laurent, its basketball program, and the Center de services scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys under the microscope.
The administrative investigation, which was ordered by the Ministry of Education, revealed a low level of organizational trust and found that the dignity of several athletes was compromised during their time at the school.
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Many issues need to be addressed to improve the checks and balances of sports programs, according to a statement issued by the ministry on Tuesday.
One of the recommendations derived from the investigation is that an independent firm intervene to fix the climate in the school and within the basketball program.
There is also a need for school boards and sports federations to change the culture in sports programs to prioritize respect for the dignity of athletes.
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Other recommendations include raising awareness of the bystander effect and implementing mandatory bystander intervention training in schools.
The Education Ministry, which ordered the investigation under the Education Law, said on Tuesday it will examine the recommendations and see how best to implement them.
However, the ministry said it would not comment further so as not to hamper ongoing criminal proceedings.
The Marguerite-Bourgeoys school board welcomed the findings, saying in a statement that the well-being of students and staff remains a priority.
The board said it will spare no effort to ensure the women’s basketball program, at the center of the investigation, lives up to expectations and instills the values of respect and dignity.
— With files from Kalina Laframboise of Global News
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