Expanding French Immersion for 2012

Parent Information Pamphlets:

• French Immersion Program - Grade 1 (PDF)
  
  
  
• French Immersion Program - Grades 4, 5 & 7 (PDF)
  
  
• What is French Immersion? (PDF)
  
  
  
  
• French Immersion at The District School Board of Niagara (video)
  
  
  
  

The District School Board of Niagara is pleased to now offer French Immersion beginning at the Grade 4 level across the system. In addition, as of September 2012, we will be implementing a Grade One French Immersion Pilot at 5 locations. As well as the new grade 4 entry, Grade 5 entry will continue across the Board for the 2012-2013 school year (Grade 7 entry will continue in St. Catharines and Niagara-on-the-Lake).

"The ability to communicate in French is a valuable skill, because French is one of Canada’s two official languages and because it is a language used widely around the world. Research confirms that knowledge of a second language strengthens first-language skills and that the ability to speak two or more languages generally enhances reasoning and problem solving skills, as well as creative-thinking skills. Learning a second language not only strengthens students’ ability to communicate, but also develops their capacity to understand and respect other cultures. In this way, second-language learning prepares students to participate more effectively in the workplace and in the global economy, and provides them with a distinct advantage in a number of careers, both in Canada and internationally." (pg 3 of the E.F./F.I. Curriculum Document (C.D.) 2001)

Parent Information Evenings will take place during the weeks of January 30 – February 10th. If you wish to find out more details about the French Immersion program, please attend one of the Information Evenings listed below, call your school or contact Julie Stapleton – FSL and International Languages Consultant, School Support Services (905)227-5551 x5220 – julie.stapleton@dsbn.org or Kelly McDonnell - Student Achievement Leader – French Immersion, School Support Services (905)-227-5551 x52402 – kelly.mcdonnell@dsbn.org