Mr. Speaker, October 5 is World Teachers' Day.
I want to acknowledge the dedication of these men and women who, as the theme suggests, are not only shaping the future, but are true leaders in a time of crisis.
This year's back-to-school was historic. It was unprecedented. I will not soon forget the image of these young school children wearing a mask following their teacher into their elementary school. A little further, I saw teenagers also wearing masks, waiting for their school bus. I knew I would not be seeing the older kids because they are learning online, cut off from all social contact. It is unreal.
As a former teacher myself, I know that teachers are navigating unknown territory while trying to provide a semblance of normalcy to the students even as they fear for their own health, for their children and for their family. They make sure not to transfer their fear to their students.
Teachers in Quebec and elsewhere are used to juggling a lack of resources and working miracles with next to noting, but they will always make sure that the children are getting the best education possible. That is why the Bloc Québécois pays tribute to them today.