Quebec Faces Urgent Teacher Shortage with Over 4,800 Positions Unfilled

URGENT UPDATE: Quebec’s education system is reeling from a staggering shortage, with over 4,800 positions still unfilled just weeks into the new school year. This includes a critical 1,509 teaching positions that remain vacant, raising alarms among parents and education officials alike.

Education Minister Bernard Drainville addressed the media on August 25, 2025, attempting to reassure the public. “I hope the unions are happy because they have every reason to be,” he stated before attending a cabinet meeting. However, he acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by schools across the province.

As of now, there are also 2,828 support staff positions and 517 professional staff roles yet to be filled, totaling a shocking 4,854 vacancies. While Drainville claims that 98 percent of teaching positions are filled, the reality remains stark as the school year progresses.

The minister emphasized that no student will be left without supervision, promising that classrooms will have staff present, even if they lack formal teaching certificates. He indicated that approximately 10 percent of teachers may not possess certification, but will at least have a university degree or a college diploma. “It is extremely marginal,” he assured, with official data expected in October.

The ongoing staffing crisis follows a tumultuous budgetary landscape. Earlier in June, the government announced $570 million in cuts, only to reverse course in July with a $540 million reinvestment after public backlash. Concerns linger that these funds won’t be available until October, potentially leaving many schools inadequately staffed at the start of the academic year.

Richard Bergevin, president of the Fédération des syndicats de l’enseignement, representing over 95,000 teachers, expressed worries about overcrowded classrooms and insufficient support for students, particularly those with special needs. “Teachers will end up with classes that are packed to the brim,” he warned, highlighting the emotional toll on both educators and students.

The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated as families prepare for the new school year. The lack of qualified staff poses a risk not only to educational quality but also to the overall well-being of students who require additional support. With the clock ticking, parents are left anxiously awaiting further updates from educational authorities.

Next steps include monitoring the hiring progress and potential release of budget funds, which could impact the hiring of necessary staff. As the situation develops, stakeholders are urged to remain engaged and informed about the ongoing challenges in Quebec’s educational landscape.

This report, originally published by The Canadian Press on August 27, 2025, highlights a critical moment for Quebec schools as they navigate unprecedented staffing shortages that could have lasting implications on the education system.