By David F. Rooney
Ten Revelstoke parents, with support of many others, have formed the first Revelstoke Chapter of Canadian Parents for French. CPF Revelstoke was formed to unite parents in the community interested in seeing a French Immersion (FI) program created and sustained within School District No. 19.
Canadian Parents for French is a national network of volunteers that values French as an integral part of Canada. It is dedicated to the promotion and creation of French second-language learning opportunities for children. Please click here to learn more about this national organization.
In a statement released Tuesday morning about its formation, the Revelstoke chapters said two meetings have been held to date.
It also outlined its goals as:
- To promote awareness of French Immersion in the community (educate about FI benefits and differences from the Francophone School).
- To educate the Public and School Board Trustees about French Immersion in the interest of implementing two classes (K and Gr. 1) for a 2013 start.
- To increase CPF Revelstoke membership.
This new organization is moving swiftly to stake out its position regarding French immersion in Revelstoke. It will release a report report to SD19 staff and the public stating their position on the strength of a French Immersion program in Revelstoke. The report will be available by the end of week on the CPF Revelstoke Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/256216694400034/?fref=ts.
Its members will no doubt also be present at the Wednesday, March 27, SD 19 Board of Trustees meeting where Superintendent Mike Hooker will present a report on the viability of French Immersion in Revelstoke.
The group also plans to hold an Open House on Thursday, April 4, at the Community Centre from 7 pm until 9 pm. The Open House will include a 20-minute presentation at 7:15 pm. Parents will be able to question school district representatives, including trustees.
CPF Revelstoke says it has identified 90 school children whose parents are interested in French immersion in Revelstoke. It also intends to continue seeking support for FI. Parents who have not expressed interest in FI but would like to do so are encouraged to follow these instructions:
Email Mike Hooker mhooker@sd19.bc.ca and the CPF Revelstoke email french_immersion@mail.com.
Please Include:
- Child’s name, birth date and year entering kindergarten
- Parent’s name, address, phone number and email
- Statement expressing interest in French Immersion regardless of school chosen to host the program.*
Example: I am writing to express our family’s desire to have French Immersion in Revelstoke. Our family is willing to participate at any of the 3 elementary schools selected to host the program.
*If your family will only participate in FI if the program is offered at your preferred school location, please state this. If the FI program proceeds at a school other than your preferred choice then your child will not be included.
