Le Conseil supérieur de l’éducation sous le gouvernement unioniste (1966-1970) : à la recherche d'un partenariat efficace

Abstract

In 1966, the Union Nationale was elected with a commitment to slow, if not reverse, the pace of reforms initiated by the Liberal government of Jean Lesage. A creation of the Quiet Revolution, the Conseil supérieur de l’éducation (CSE) was one of the many organizations concerned about the changing of the political guard. Examining this critical period (1966– 1970), this article shows that it was more a period of continuity than a period of rupture for the CSE. Internally, an analysis of the minutes reveals members’ constant concern to be aligned with the Parent Report, despite members’ disagreements with the report. Externally, a review of comments from conservative—nationalist and religious—groups reveals a certain dismay at the refusal of the Ministry of Education to reorient the work of the CSE after the election of the UN. The CSE’s willingness to rise above partisan quarrels and offer rigorous expertise in the service of the state defused many criticisms, while ensuring that the new organization would have strong credibility in the eyes of public decision-makers, who soon granted the CSE increasingly significant resources.