Do the schools in your school service centre follow the code of ethics?

The code of ethics in effect within Québec’s school service centres (CSS), particularly through Article 3.3, requires all school staff members to maintain a strictly professional distance with students. It clearly states that any form of personal communication, especially via social media, must be avoided.

Yet, in practice, a different reality often prevails. Whether it’s a team’s Messenger group or text messages between coaches and athletes, some practices still violate these principles. This is why the strict implementation of the Rule of Two is essential to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all students.

Created by the Coaching Association of Canada, the Rule of Two states that at least two responsible adults must be present during any interaction with students. This rule applies not only to physical activities such as practices and competitions but also to all forms of digital communication.

In a digital context—where misconduct can easily go unnoticed—the Rule of Two becomes an essential safety measure to prevent abusive or inappropriate behavior online, in line with the requirements of the code of ethics.

To ensure the effective implementation of the Rule of Two within your school service centre (CSS), here are some key recommendations:

• Staff training and awareness: Regularly inform and train your staff on the specific requirements of the code of ethics and the Rule of Two.
• Use of secure digital tools: Adopt supervised communication platforms like MonClubSportif to ensure maximum transparency. Learn how this platform protects your children with this article about MonClubSportif’s role in the digital environment.
• Clear and consistent communication: Clearly explain the reasons and benefits of the Rule of Two to students and parents, helping to build trust and support for your CSS’s safety practices.

Several high schools in Québec have already adopted specific policies to regulate communication within extracurricular activities.

In some institutions, the use of social media groups is strictly prohibited, while others require that a school administrator or designated staff member be systematically included in any communication between an adult and a student. This is the case for the Laurentides School Service Centre (CSS), which has implemented a policy governing the use of social media. The policy states:

“A school administrator or responsible staff member must be included in all communications with a student, particularly through social media.”

These practices reflect a strong commitment to protecting youth while ensuring traceability of digital communications.