Picture a hallway or classroom where students politely greet a teacher with a “Good morning, Ma’am” — using formal language, symbolizing a return to civility and school etiquette.
There’s something in the air this back-to-school season… and it’s not just the smell of freshly sharpened pencils.

For the 2025 school year, the Quebec government is rolling out a new script: goodbye, cellphones. No more texting under the desk, posting stories between classes, or earbuds hidden in sleeves. From the first bell to the last “Have a good evening,” the entire school grounds are now screen-free zones.

Why this policy?

According to Education Minister Bernard Drainville, the ban aims to:

• Improve academic success: fewer distractions, more focus.
• Revive offline social life — the good old face-to-face conversations.
• Reduce online bullying.
• And let’s be honest: even we adults could use a little notification detox during the day…

HOW TO SUPPORT YOUR CHILDREN

As an etiquette expert, I recommend turning these new rules into opportunities to foster civility and self-confidence.

• Change the narrative: talk about the ban as a unique chance to truly connect with others.
• Highlight screen-free moments: ask them after school, “Who did you meet today? Who did you chat with?”
• Set the tone: let them pick a discreet pouch or case to store their phone when they arrive at school.

These simple actions help lay the foundation for a respectful, harmonious triangle between school, parents, and students.

FORMAL LANGUAGE IS COMING… AND WHY YOU SHOULD GET A HEAD START

Starting in January 2026, using formal language with school staff will become the norm. Yes, a polite “you,” paired with “Sir” or “Ma’am,” will be officially part of the dress code — just like appropriate attire.

But why wait? Encouraging your children to start using more respectful, formal language now helps them ease into it naturally — strengthening both their confidence and their day-to-day social ease.

This back-to-school season isn’t just a return to class. These new rules — applied with consistency and care — can transform our schools into real gateways of respect and human connection. And they offer our children a lasting advantage: being seen as respectful and self-assured individuals — qualities that will serve them well in their professional lives.

So what if we saw these changes not as restrictions, but as a chance to grow and evolve? Because, honestly, a sincere “Good morning, Ma’am” can be worth more than a thousand likes.

Want to help your children or students develop good manners and respect for others?

Julie Blais Comeau, etiquette expert, offers her expertise through interactive “Good Manners” workshops. Tailored to your goals and learners’ needs, she guides children — our future — to shine in the classroom, on the playground, and in the community. To learn more or book a workshop, contact Julie at: julie@etiquettejulie.com

Julie Blais Comeau is a leading authority on etiquette in Quebec and across Canada. A sought-after media contributor, dynamic speaker, and inspiring author, she leads etiquettejulie.com, a company dedicated to the art of interpersonal relationships. Tap into her services to discover how she can help you thrive in every area of your life. With Julie as your guide, you’ll learn to navigate any situation with confidence and grace — all while staying true to yourself.

Translated from published on mitsoumagazine.com, August 26, 2025 © Julie Blais Comeau