November can often feel overwhelming for families, especially with the flurry of report cards, parent-teacher meetings, and mid-year check-ins. For parents managing a child's Individualized Education Program (IEP), it can be even more daunting. Here are some helpful strategies to stay organized and confident as you head into the second half of the school year. 

1. Start with a Check-in: Your Child's Voice Matters 

With routines more settled and classroom expectations clearer, it's a good time to have a conversation with your child about their school experience. Ask them: 

• What feels easier than last year?
• What’s becoming frustrating or stressful? 
• What supports seem to help the most? 

Children often have valuable insights into what works for them. Their input is a crucial part of any successful IEP. 

2. Refresh (or Create) Your IEP Organization System 

A little organization can go a long way. Whether you prefer a physical binder or a digital folder, now is an ideal time to reorganize. Here’s how to get started if you don't already have an IEP binder: 

• Use a three-ring binder with section dividers and a hole punch. 
• Review: Check what accommodations or supports have been implemented. Note anything missing or unclear. 
• Clear Out Clutter: Remove unnecessary papers to see the full picture. 
• Add Recent Documents: Keep report cards, communications, and new strategies or assessments in one place.

Being organized helps you advocate effectively and monitor progress over time. 

3. Communicate with Teachers or the IEP Team 

IEPs are legally required to be reviewed at least once a year, but parents can request an earlier meeting if needed. If something isn’t working or if you've noticed new challenges, don't hesitate to reach out. Your perspective is vital, and your input helps shape a plan that supports your child's learning and well-being. 

Remember: You're Not Alone 

Managing an IEP can feel overwhelming, but staying organized and maintaining regular communication with the school can make a significant difference. Organizations like EPCA are here to support you, ensuring that parent voices remain strong, informed, and empowered. 

By taking these steps, you'll be better equipped to support your child's educational journey.

Dear Parents,

November is when families receive the first report card, have their first formal check-in with teachers, and depending on the circumstances, create or review an IEP. These conversations can feel overwhelming, especially when they involve concerns or uncertainty. You’re not alone in feeling that way. That’s why this month’s newsletter is dedicated to supporting you through two of the most important moments in the school year: parent–teacher meetings and IEP meetings.

Parent–teacher interviews are more than a discussion of marks. They are an essential chance to understand how your child is learning, how they’re adapting socially and emotionally, and what supports might make a difference as the year progresses. A meaningful, collaborative conversation can set the tone for your child’s entire school experience.

Parent Governance Workshop – November 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. (Virtual)
To help parents feel confident and informed, EPCA will be hosting a virtual Parent Governance Workshop on Tuesday, November 18th at 7 p.m. This session is designed to help parents deepen their understanding of how governance works, what their role is, and how recent legislative and regulatory changes affect parent participation.
Whether you are new to a Governing Board or have been involved for years, this workshop will offer clarity, practical information, and a space to ask questions. Our goal is simple: to empower parents with the knowledge and confidence they need to contribute meaningfully to their school community.

Register to the Parent Governance Workshop

New EPCA Website Coming Soon
I’m also excited to announce that EPCA will soon unveil our redesigned website. We’ve been working hard to build a platform that reflects the needs of today’s parents, one that is easier to navigate, clearer in its information, and richer in resources. From governance tools to parent guides, this new website will make it much simpler to access the support you need when you need it.

A Challenging Start to the School Year
EPCA recognizes the significant challenges our public schools have faced since September. Many parents have expressed concerns about reduced access to student services, inconsistent availability of school supports, and the broader uncertainty created by delayed funding decisions.
The recent announcement allowing additional hiring across the network is welcome, but it comes after months of instability that have affected students in every region. Families have felt the consequences directly, in tutoring availability, homework support programs, extracurricular opportunities, and, in many cases, additional costs passed on to parents.

Moving Forward
As you head into your parent-teacher interviews and IEP meetings, remember that you are a key partner in your child’s education. Ask questions. Share what you’re seeing at home. Advocate for clarity and consistency. And know that EPCA is here to support you every step of the way.

I hope you will join us on November 18th for our workshop and visit our new website once it launches.

Katherine Korakakis
President, English Parents’ Committee Association

Dear Parents,

At the start of the school year, I stood with our education partners to advocate for more stability and transparency in school funding. However, over the last few weeks, stories shared by parents across Quebec have made it clear that the situation is becoming more urgent. Our children’s success and well-being depend on a system that truly meets their needs and right now, many families are left in the dark.

Parents who volunteer on school committees continue to express frustration. Their questions about budget priorities, service availability, and decision-making processes are frequently left unanswered. Meanwhile, school boards are experiencing delays in finalizing their budgets, which have been pushed back until the end of October.

Sonia LeBel, our new Minister of Education, has the opportunity to make a significant impact by ensuring that every child has access to essential educational and complementary services. Removing the directive that limits staff working hours, which is widely acknowledged as a barrier to providing adequate support, would be an important first step. As always, EPCA will continue to advocate strongly on behalf of families and students to ensure that words become actions.

EPCA is your partner for English Education in Quebec. We are excited to announce a new season of programs and activities for parents throughout the province. I encourage you to participate in the training sessions and workshops that we will organize. They are all intended to improve parental engagement, parent resources, and school governance. If you have a specific topic, you'd like us to cover, please contact us.

Finally, October marks Learning Disabilities Awareness Month. It's time to remind ourselves that not all learning differences are obvious. One of every five people has a different way of learning and thinking. Whether it's ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, or language and written expression disorders, raising awareness helps to reduce stigma and better support every child's ability to thrive. Let us use this opportunity to further our understanding and advocate for inclusive classrooms that meet every learner where they are.

EPCA remains committed to its mission of empowering parents and protecting their rights in the public school system. Together, we can continue to improve schools for all students.

I wish you a meaningful and inspiring autumn.

Katherine Korakakis
President, English Parents’ Committee Association of Quebec (EPCA)

New information document from the Government of Quebec that explains the process for families seeking English-language education under serious family or humanitarian circumstances (Section 85.1 of the Charter of the French Language).

This guide outlines:

• Who may qualify for English instruction in Quebec
• What counts as a serious family or humanitarian situation
• How to submit a request to the Examining Committee on the Language of Instruction
• What documents are required to support your request (e.g. reports, evaluations, judgments, etc.)
• How the review process works and how long it takes (approximately 40 working days)

Parents whose children have been refused eligibility for English instruction may be able to submit a request to the Examining Committee. This guide helps you understand the steps, required documentation, and timelines so you can make an informed submission.

📄 Download the full document below:
👉 Language of Instruction in Québec and the Role of the Examining Committee – Serious Family or Humanitarian Situation (PDF)

If you have questions about your eligibility process, contact your school board’s eligibility officer or visit quebec.ca for official information

1. Why This Matters
Every year, your school’s governing board (GB) is responsible for adopting the school’s budget. This isn’t just a technicality, it’s one of the most important powers the board holds.

Normally, the process is straightforward: the principal presents a budget, the board discusses it and then adopts it. But this year, things are different. Provincial budget rules changed mid-summer, meaning the money schools receive may come with restrictions or conditions. In practice, this could mean:

• Certain programs may be underfunded.
• Services that directly support students (e.g., tutoring, special education, extracurriculars) could be reduced.
• Principals may face pressure to cut or delay certain expenses.

That’s why parents on governing boards must look closely at the numbers, not just to approve them, but to make sure the budget reflects student needs first.

2. The Governing Board’s Real Role

Under Article 95 of the Education Act, the governing board does more than “approve” a budget, it adopts it. This means you, as a parent, are not simply there to rubber-stamp decisions. You have the legal right to:

• Ask questions: If something isn’t clear, demand clarification.
• Request changes: Suggest reallocating funds if student services are at risk.
• Delay adoption: Postpone approval until the board has enough information.
• Reject the budget: If it compromises services or fails to meet student needs, you can say no.

This power exists because governing boards are not meant to defend government financial decisions. They exist to defend students’ education.

Articles 64 and 71 of the Education Act make this clear: board members must act honestly, loyally, and in the best interest of the students, staff, and community.

3. What Happens if a Budget is Rejected?
A common fear is that rejecting a budget will shut down a school. This is not true.

• Schools will continue to operate.
• Teachers and staff will keep working.
• Students will still receive their classes and services.
• The only consequence may be delays in spending for some non-urgent items.

In those cases, the school board or principal will prepare a provisional budget until a revised one is adopted.

Rejecting a budget is not an attack on the school, it is a responsible decision when student services are threatened.

4. How Parents Can Prepare and Act
Here’s a step-by-step way to approach budget season as a parent representative:

Before the Meeting

• Make sure the revised budget is included in the meeting notice. You must receive it ahead of time, not on the spot.
• Compare the proposed budget with last year’s. Look at key areas: Are there cuts to services, programs, or support staff?

During the Meeting

• Ask the principal to explain how the proposed budget will affect students. For example: “What will be the impact on special needs students?” or “Will extracurricular programs continue at the same level?”
• If the explanation shows that services are being cut or reduced, you can propose a resolution to modify or reject the budget.

After the Meeting

• If your board modifies or rejects the budget, communicate this clearly. Parents should know why the decision was made.
• Inform the school board administration, your local MNAs, and the Minister of Education. This ensures the message travels up to decision-makers.

5. Why Rejecting or Modifying Sends a Message
Principals cannot change the amount of funding their school receives. Even school boards have limited influence. The real decisions are made by the provincial government.

So why reject or modify a budget? Because it sends a powerful message that parents and schools cannot accept cuts that harm students. It tells Quebec policymakers: our children’s education is not negotiable.

6. Sample Resolution
Here’s a ready-to-use template:

Considering the financial context for the 2025–2026 school year;
Whereas the proposed budget negatively impacts student services;
Whereas Article 64 of the Education Act requires decisions to be made in students’ best interests;

The governing board of [School Name] refuses to adopt the budget as presented and requests a revised version that better reflects the school’s real needs.

The chair will inform parents, the school board, local MNAs, and the Minister of Education of this decision.

Keep resolutions short and clear. A direct statement is more effective than a long explanation.

7. Key Takeaway for Parents
Your job as a parent on the governing board is not to balance the government’s books. It’s to protect students.

When services that directly impact children’s, success are threatened, modifying or rejecting a budget isn’t confrontational, it’s responsible, lawful, and aligned with the governing board’s mission.

By taking this stand, you remind decision-makers that children’s education must come first, always.

Helpful Resources:

• Education Act – Article 95
• Education Act – Article 64
• Education Act – Article 71
• Ministry Guide on Annual School Budgets

Dear Parents,

As we begin this new chapter with a new Minister of Education, we at the English Parents’ Committee Association (EPCA) are both hopeful and vigilant. A new minister brings with it a fresh opportunity to reset priorities, listen to parents’ voices, and ensure that education policy is responsive to the real needs of students across Quebec.

Where We Stand Today
Education in Quebec remains at a crossroads. Families continue to face obstacles in accessing timely services for their children, compounded by the constant stream of government reforms. Parents recognize the dedication of educators and administrators, who work tirelessly under difficult conditions, but the system itself is falling short. Student well-being and success must come first in every decision, and we must ensure resources are protected so all students get the support they need to succeed.

Our Accomplishments & Challenges
Over the past year, EPCA has amplified parents’ voices in multiple ways:

• We successfully mobilized parents around key policy issues, including budget cuts, road safety, and equitable access to services.
• We worked with partners to deliver workshops and resources that empowered parents in their role as active participants in governance.
• We maintained a steady presence in consultations, ensuring that decision-makers heard directly from parents on matters ranging from digital tools in classrooms to support for vulnerable students.

At the same time, we faced challenges. Budget reductions placed added pressure on school services. Parents reported frustration with uneven communication and the ongoing strain on teacher recruitment and retention. These are not small issues; they are systemic challenges that require bold solutions.

Our Priorities for the Year Ahead
Looking ahead, EPCA will remain focused on what matters most to families:

• Student Success & Well-Being: Advocating for stronger supports for all students, with particular attention to those with learning or mental health needs
• Parent Empowerment: Expanding training, resources, and tools so parents feel confident and equipped to contribute.
• Accountability in Policy: Holding decision-makers accountable to ensure reforms and funding decisions strengthen, not weaken, our education system.

Parents play a vital role in education. Whether or not you sit on a committee, simply being present, encouraging learning, and working with schools makes a real difference. We know challenges exist, and communication is not always easy, but openness and collaboration are the key. EPCA will continue to put dialogue and student well-being at the center of all its advocacy.

Wishing you a good Fall,

Katherine Korakakis
President, English Parents’ Committee Association

PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release

Montreal, September 10, 2025 – The English Parents’ Committee Association (EPCA) warmly congratulates Sonia LeBel on her appointment as Quebec’s Minister of Education.

“Parents across the province want to see an education system that puts students first. We are eager to meet with Minister LeBel to share the perspectives of English-speaking families and to work together on solutions that ensure every child has the chance to thrive,” said Katherine Korakakis, President of EPCA.

EPCA represents parents from English-language school boards across Quebec. At the start of this school year, families have expressed concerns about timely access to services, resources for students with additional needs, and the impact of budget pressures on classrooms. For many, the stability and quality of education are at the forefront of their worries.

The association is calling on the new Minister to prioritize the success and well-being of students by reinforcing support services, maintaining qualified staff in schools, and engaging directly with parents as active partners in education.

EPCA emphasizes that a smooth transition at the Ministry is essential so that parents and schools can move forward without disruption. The association hopes to meet with Minister LeBel soon to build a strong working relationship focused on student success.

EPCA also extends its thanks to outgoing Minister Bernard Drainville for his service and his openness to dialogue with parent representatives during his time in office.

– 30 –

Dear parents,

As the new school year begins, I want to take a moment to welcome you back and to thank you for the trust, energy, and commitment you bring to your children’s education. A new school year is always a chance for fresh starts, renewed connections, and stronger collaboration between families, schools, and communities.

This year, there are important changes and challenges ahead of us, each one an opportunity to reflect, adapt, and work together for the benefit of our students.

Cell Phone Ban
The provincial government’s recent announcement on cell phone restrictions has generated headlines, but let us be clear: cell phones were already not allowed in classrooms. What students truly need is not more punitive measures, but meaningful education around technology. Children must be taught how to be good digital citizens, how to spot fake news, understand the addictive design of digital devices, and how to develop responsible online habits. Simply banning devices does not prepare our children for the digital world they live in; teaching them to navigate it wisely does. EPCA continues to call for training for both parents and students so that technology becomes a tool for learning and growth, rather than a source of contention.

Annual General Assembly
This fall also brings the Annual General Assembly at each school, where parents have the opportunity to step into leadership roles on Governing Boards and Parents’ Committees. These assemblies are a cornerstone of parent voice in education. Your presence and participation ensure that our schools remain responsive to the needs of the community they serve and that parent perspectives help guide decision-making. I encourage every parent to take part, whether by attending, voting, or volunteering. Your involvement truly makes a difference.

Education Budget Cuts
At the same time, we cannot ignore the reality of provincial budget reductions in education. These cuts will have an impact across our school system. As the English Parents’ Committee Association, we are standing firm in our advocacy: every child deserves equitable access to quality education, and parents’ voices must be heard in protecting resources for classrooms, services, and supports. While challenges lie ahead, we are stronger when we speak together and I am proud to say we are united in ensuring that no child is left behind.

As we step into this school year, let us remember that education is more than policies and numbers, it is about the success, joy, and growth of our children. With your continued involvement, your encouragement at home, and your willingness to advocate, I am confident we can transform challenges into opportunities.

On behalf of the EPCA, I wish all students, parents, and educators a successful and inspiring school year. Let’s make it one filled with learning, connection, and resilience.

Warmly,
Katherine Korakakis
President, English Parents’ Committee Association

Montreal, July 16, 2025 — Following the release of the final budget rules for the education sector, the English Parents Committee Association (EPCA) and the Fédération des comités de parents du Québec (FCPQ) are urging the Quebec government and the entire education network to go further to ensure students’ access to essential educational services are never compromised. While the budgetary outlook is less dire than expected, both organizations stress: our children deserve better.

“It is unacceptable that our children’s future continues to be put at risk in the name of balancing budgets. Educational services are not a luxury — they are essential.” added Katherine Korakakis, President of EPCA.

"Our children's education, their success and well-being must come before balancing the budget." indicates Mélanie Laviolette, President of the FCPQ.

In recent years, students in Quebec have faced constant disruptions: the COVID-19 pandemic led to learning and developmental setbacks, followed by prolonged school closures due to strikes. A recovery plan had been launched, but funding for key support measures, including tutoring and free summer school, was discontinued last year, raising serious concerns among parents and educators.

Back in March 2025, parents were already voicing fears about the slowing pace of educational investment in the provincial budget. Today, FCPQ and EPCA are reiterating their call for the government to demonstrate that education is truly its top priority — and to ensure that student success doesn’t depend on shifting political will.

Both organizations are perplexed by the government's continued denial that the earlier versions of the budget rules signaled cuts, even as stakeholders across the education network spent weeks scrambling to understand how to maintain services.

Throughout the summer, both FCPQ and EPCA will remain active, monitoring developments, maintaining dialogue with partners, and supporting their member parent committees.

One thing is clear: parents will not stand by as their children’s success, well-being, and future are jeopardized. Their voices will be heard; education must be the priority.

- 30 -

About the English Parent Committee Association (EPCA)
EPCA is a coalition of parent committees from Quebec’s English-language school boards.
As the official voice of the English-speaking public school parent community, it represents nearly
100,000 students and advocates on their behalf to the Ministry of Education and throughout the
education system.

About the Fédération des comités de parents du Québec (FCPQ)
The FCPQ represents parent committees from more than 90% of Quebec’s school service centres. For over 50 years, it has supported dedicated volunteer parents working to strengthen parental involvement in public elementary and secondary schools to ensure quality education for all children.

Dear parents,

As we near the end of another school year, I'd like to share a message of celebration—of progress, resilience, and community. Instead, I am writing with concern.

Last week, the Quebec government announced a $510 million cut to public education. This is more than just a budget adjustment. The decision will have a direct impact on students, families, teachers, and school staff across the province. And it comes on top of the $200 million in cuts imposed earlier this fall.

The message to school boards is blunt: do more with less. If possible, try to protect student services while still making them functional. The cuts were implemented with little to no meaningful consultation, leaving school boards scrambling to make decisions that could jeopardize student support.

We are already seeing the effects.

These cuts fall hardest on:

Students who rely on speech therapists, psychologists, or special education teachers to help them learn and thrive.

Extracurricular programs and supportive environments help children stay connected and engaged.

Schools that are already overburdened, doing their best with scarce resources.

At EPCA, we've spent the year listening to parents throughout Quebec. We repeatedly hear the same message: families want more support, more transparency, and a stronger relationship with the public education system. This decision takes us in the opposite direction.

I can't pretend I'm not deeply concerned. These cuts are shortsighted. They send the incorrect message about our values, forcing us to ask difficult questions:

What kind of future will we create if we continue to undermine public education?
How can we claim that education is a priority when our actions suggest otherwise?

The timing of this announcement, just as families are preparing for summer, was not coincidental. As parents look forward to rest, camping, travel, and quality time with their children, these cuts are quietly implemented with little public oversight.

Nonetheless, we must remain alert. We must return in the fall, prepared to speak up.

• Attend your school's annual assembly.
• Inquire with your community's governing board about the impact of these cuts.
• Ensure that your child receives the necessary services.
• Support your local parent committee.
• Ask questions. Demand answers. Please share your perspective.

Because if we don't advocate for our children, who will?

Education is not a luxury; it serves as the foundation for all that we hope to achieve in the future. And we cannot build that future by dismantling the supports that our children require now.

I wish you and your family a peaceful and joyful summer. Let us return in the fall, prepared to make our voices heard.

Yours,
Katherine Korakakis
President
English Parents' Committee Association (EPCA)