Don’t wait until it’s too late! Late French Immersion is being offered to in the 2010/11 school year to students who will be in Grade 4 or 5. Despite much advocacy by Canadian Parents for French and parents of students in and wanting to be in French Immersion last year not enough students registered to make the class viable. Concerns were raised that parent and students were not aware of the choice. This year, all parents of students in grades 3 and 4 were sent a letter of invitation to attend information meetings, each grade 3 and 4 class had a chance to see a presentation by the principal of TM Roberts and meet students in French immersion, and there have been ads in the newspaper.

At a recent open house, I found out that there were less than 10 students registered. One of the students interested has applied to be in Late French immersion for the past 2 years and is now prepared to repeat a year just for the opportunity. Don’t let this student and your child be disappointed.

I have two boys who are now in middle school who were able to take Late French Immersion. It has been a great experience and my worries that they might struggle academically have gone unfulfilled. I have only poor high school French and cannot support that part of their schooling, but I do support them by supporting good work habits and showing an interest in their work. They joined with students in early French Immersion and moved into middle school without difficulty. Students who graduate with a bilingual degee will have increased opportunities for scholarships and bursaries and careers.

This year the last day for registration is February 25 and while there are only 30 spots available, if there are not 24 registered students by that date, the program will not be provided. If you have children currently in Grade 3 or Grade 4 – take the time this week to find out about Late French Immersion and then register before its too late at TM Roberts School. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity, the time is now!

Debbie Reed

Cranbrook