French immersion programs growing despite wider decline

The number of students in French immersion programs in B. C. public schools has grown for the 14th consecutive year.

There are now 46,856 French immersion students, an increase of about 4.5 per cent from last year, according to a news release from Canadian Parents for French ( CPF). The numbers have been increasing steadily even while public- school enrolments have been declining.

French immersion students make up 8.1 per cent of total public- school enrolment, up from 4.8 per cent in 2001. Meanwhile overall enrolment is down, with 569,728 students this year compared to 632,503 in 2001.

“For more than 40 years, French immersion in Canada has had overwhelmingly positive results and is often recognized as one of the most successful language- teaching programs in the world,” said Debra Pool, president of the CPF’s B. C. and Yukon branch, in the release.

“Unfortunately, the increasing demand for French immersion still outweighs the seat capacity in many districts, resulting in capped enrolment.”

Glyn Lewis, the organization’s executive director, said he doesn’t agree with parents who suggest French immersion programs are like private schools within the public- school system. The program accepts all students, not just those who excel academically, he said in an interview.

“We encourage all parents to give French immersion a good review when looking at options [ for their children],” he added.

Of B. C.’ s 60 school districts, 18 do not offer French immersion.