Alphonse-Marie Parent facts for kids

Alphonse-Marie Parent (April 2, 1906 – October 7, 1970) was an important Canadian priest, teacher, and university leader. He is most famous for his work on the Parent Report. This report helped to change Quebec's education system a lot.

Early Life and Studies

Alphonse-Marie Parent was born in Saint-Jean-Chrysostome, Quebec. He was born on April 2, 1906. His parents were Alphonse Parent and Marie Gosselin.

He went to school at the Collège de Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pocatière. He also studied at the Séminaire de Québec. In 1929, he became a priest. He later earned a special degree called a doctorate in philosophy. He got this degree from the Catholic University of Louvain.

Leading Universities

Alphonse-Marie Parent was a leader at Université Laval. This is a big university in Quebec. From 1949 to 1954, he was the vice-rector. This means he was like a second-in-command.

Then, from 1954 to 1960, he became the rector. This is the main leader of the university. He helped guide the university during these years. In 1965, he received an honorary doctorate. This was from Sir George Williams University. Today, this university is known as Concordia University.

The Parent Commission

One of his biggest achievements was leading a special group. This group was called the Royal Commission of Enquiry on Teaching in Quebec. He was the president of this commission from 1961 to 1966.

The commission looked closely at how education worked in Quebec. They made many important suggestions. Their ideas led to big changes in schools. For example, they helped create CEGEPs. These are colleges that students attend after high school. They replaced the older "classical colleges."

Awards and Legacy

In 1967, Alphonse-Marie Parent received a high honor. He was made a Companion of the Order of Canada. This award is one of the highest honors a Canadian can receive. It recognizes people who have made a great difference to Canada.

Alphonse-Marie Parent passed away on October 7, 1970. His work greatly shaped the education system in Quebec. Many students today benefit from the changes he helped bring about.