School principal replaced after Quebec teacher caught screaming at Grade One students

The principal of a Quebec school has been replaced indefinitely one day after a recording surfaced showing a teacher shouting at her Grade One students.

The principal of a Quebec school has been replaced one day after a recording surfaced showing a teacher shouting at her Grade One students.

The incident happened at École des Grands-Vents in Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac, an off-island suburb near Montreal.

"Clearly, the bond of trust has been broken between parents and the school. We have a responsibility to restore the climate to ensure a safe and healthy environment for our students and staff," said Nathalie Joannette, chair of the Mille-Îles School Service Centre (CSSMI), in a statement on Wednesday.

"At the same time, administrative and police investigations are underway and must be carried out under optimal conditions. In this context, and without putting anyone on trial, it seems appropriate to make changes quickly. The new principal chosen has the experience and hindsight necessary to manage the school and restore trust with parents and students," she said.

Lyson Dompierre will take over from Eric Campeau as head of the school for an indefinite period.

Late Wednesday morning, the CSSMI indicated it would not give any interviews on its decision, which was communicated by e-mail to parents of students at the school.

"The investigations are ongoing, and all necessary efforts are being made to restore a healthy and trusting climate at the school,'" said communications advisor Melanie Poirier.