Philippe Alarie, both a good teacher and listener

Philippe Alarie is passionate about teaching, as well as an avid hockey fan.

As a political science teacher at Cégep de l’Outaouais, he teaches a few Gatineau Olympiques players each year. Over time, he has had a good dozen sign up for his class.

In fact, this year alone, he has three taking his course.

“I like the connection with the youngsters and the human side,” explains the man who admits to loving his job. “The biggest challenge with students in general is to go and pique their curiosity, to find a way to get them to interact, and to get them to engage.”

According to Alarie, the bad reputation hockey players have had towards their studies is far from reflecting today’s reality.

“It depends on the individual. I’ve known players who were very committed to their studies, and others who, unfortunately, fit the stereotype,” explains the one who’s been teaching at Cégep de l’Outaouais since 2009. “Generally speaking, I’d say things have improved over the years. The teenagers seem to be better supervised and more motivated than ever these days. I have to admit that no matter the sport, high-level athletes usually have a remarkable work ethic.”

“When you’re a student-athlete with such a busy schedule, you don’t have much time to be fooling around! For some, the discipline they’ve shown is quite remarkable,” he adds.

But beyond the results, Alarie says he appreciates above all the commitment of his students, and their evolution over time.

“It’s special to see both individuals and groups surpassing themselves, going beyond their initial expectations or abilities. In short, to see them grow!”

As is the case with high school and university-level institutions, teachers must be flexible with young hockey players, who often have very uncommon schedules. QMJHL players in particular have to miss time when their team hits the road for several days, whether to visit teams in the Maritimes or across Quebec.

“Of course, exams often have to be postponed. We’re accommodating, and the CEGEP provides the players with an academic advisor who helps us make these arrangements,” explains Alarie.

What’s more, many hockey players are interested in political science in particular, and in this sense they’re no different from other students, says the teacher.

“I think students in general find the matter interesting, if only for their desire to be free and to better understand how power is exercised,” he maintains.

In addition to putting in place the necessary measures to make the subject interesting to his students, Philippe Alarie has set himself apart with the Olympiques players by demonstrating great listening skills, flexibility and by offering them all the support they need.

For all this and much more, we thank you Mr. Alarie!

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Teacher Appreciation Week is an opportunity to pay tribute to the remarkable commitment of teachers who work for the educational success of students while contributing to the development of our society.

The 30th edition of Teacher Appreciation Week runs from February 4 to 10, 2024.