For students and staff, the end of the school year brings graduations, awards ceremonies, and the anticipation of well-deserved summer holidays. But there is no rest for the weary when it comes to administrators, as the end of one year means it’s time to start planning for the next. One of the biggest items on the to-do list is replacing teachers who have retired or decided to move away from Quebec City. QHS Principal Paula Breton looked ahead and realized she would need about five new full-time teachers to begin the 2025–26 school year. Little did she know, she was about to experience something no other principal had encountered before at Quebec High School.
“Well that is a first, and it is good news, no, it’s amazing news!” said community development agent Ed Sweeney when principal Breton told him that this week she interviewed 3 QHS Alumni, offered them each a job, and then received word that each had accepted her offer. So, joining the ranks of QHS as staff members are Kelly Eden, Class of 2019, Ben McBain, Class of 2018, and Laurie Thibault, Class of 2016. Three proud Quebec High School alumni returning to give back to the community that helped shape them. Ben McBain, now teaching Math and Science, was once known for his leadership both in the classroom and on the basketball court. Laurie, who has stepped into the role of Drama teacher, brings her trademark creativity and enthusiasm that once lit up QHS performances. Kelly, teaching History and Geography, returns with the same curiosity and passion for learning that made her a standout student. Each deeply engaged in student life, and always ready to volunteer when needed. Together, they embody the spirit of what it means to be a QHS graduate — dedicated, community-minded, and proud to carry their school’s legacy forward. “With new hires, it sometimes takes a while for them to learn the QHS way — but for these ‘New Kids on the Block,’ it’s built into their DNA,” said Sweeney.
Kelly Eden
QHS Class of 2019
Returning to Quebec High School this year as a teacher marks a full-circle moment for Kelly Eden. A proud QHS graduate from the class of 2019, Kelly credits her years at the school for helping shape both her character and her path toward education.
During her time at QHS, Kelly could often be found in the pit—especially on the basketball court—where she developed teamwork, perseverance, and school spirit. Earning her “wings” became a proud symbol of dedication to the QHS athletic community. Beyond athletics, they immersed themselves in a range of experiences, including the Outdoor Education program, student council, student exchanges, a humanitarian trip to Ecuador, and the leadership program. Each of these opportunities, many made possible through finanancial support from the Alumni Foundation, helped Kelly grow as a leader and discover her passion for helping others succeed. After graduating, Kelly attended CEGEP Champlain–St. Lawrence in the Arts, Literature, and Communications program before pursuing a double major in Secondary Education and English Literature at McGill University. Even beyond high school, the lessons and sense of belonging she found at QHS continued to guide her, inspiring active involvement in campus life and a commitment to community. Now, as a first-year teacher, walking the same halls feels both nostalgic and inspiring. “It really feels like coming home,” Kelly says. “Being able to give back to the place that gave me so much is an incredible feeling.”
Kelly (#44), proudly wore the Blue and Gold uniform as a member of the basketball and soccer teams at QHS.
For Kelly, Quebec High School remains more than just a workplace—it’s a community that helped shape her dreams and now gives her the chance to help the next generation discover theirs.
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