What is the scope of the state's interest in the education of its citizens?

In R v. Jones 1986 CanLII 32 (SCC), [1986] 2 S.C.R.284, Justice LaForest noted that the state has an interest in the education of its citizens: Whether one views it from an economic, social, cultural or civic point of view , the education of the young is critically important in our society. From an early period, the provinces have responded to this interest by developing schemes for compulsory education. Education is today a matter of prime concern to governments everywhere. Activities in this area account for a very significant part of every provincial budget. Indeed in modern society, education has far reaching implications beyond the province, not only at the national, but at the international level.