The Pensionnat du Saint-Nom-de-Marie, a girls' private school in Montreal, will shift its entire curriculum to remote learning from September 20 through September 27, 2026. The decision follows the city's hosting of the UCI Road World Championships, a week-long international cycling competition that is expected to create extensive traffic disruptions and logistical complications across the region.
During the championship week, major streets and thoroughfares in Montreal will be closed or rerouted to accommodate race routes and spectator areas. Public transportation schedules are also slated for adjustments, and heightened security measures will be in place around event venues. School officials indicated that the combined effect of road closures, altered transit patterns, and increased crowd activity could interfere with students' ability to attend classes safely and on time.
By moving to online instruction, the school aims to maintain continuity of education while ensuring the safety of its students and staff. The remote format will allow teachers to deliver lessons through digital platforms, preserving the regular academic timetable despite the city's altered landscape. Parents and guardians have been notified of the temporary change, and the school plans to resume in‑person classes once the championships conclude.
Montreal's role as host of the UCI Road World Championships marks a significant event for the city, drawing athletes and fans from around the globe. While the competition brings international attention and economic activity, it also imposes short‑term challenges for local institutions. The Pensionnat du Saint-Nom-de-Marie's shift to online learning reflects a broader effort by community organizations to adapt to the temporary disruptions associated with large‑scale sporting events.