Fantastic news for families in Deep River and Pembroke! Beginning in September 2024, both Mackenzie Community School and Highview Public School are set to introduce bilingual kindergarten and Early French Immersion programs. This decision comes as a response to the growing demand within the community, aiming to cater to the desire for increased French immersion opportunities.
Kristen Niemi, the Director of Education, expresses her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “We are thrilled to include bilingual kindergarten and EFI at Mackenzie and Highview, showcasing our commitment to enriching education and fostering French fluency from an early age.”
This expansion is particularly significant for Deep River families, as it now enables them to access French Immersion programs locally. The move is expected to be well-received, with local Trustee Jodie Lee Primeau highlighting the strong desire from Deep River families to provide their children with this educational opportunity.
In Pembroke, Trustee and Board Vice-Chair Leo Boland underscores the significance of the development, noting that students who were previously required to register at Champlain Discovery School, outside the Highview community boundaries, now have an exciting opportunity to enroll in the popular Early French Immersion program at their home school.
To facilitate understanding and answer any questions, both schools will be hosting French as a Second Language (FSL) Family information nights. The session for Mackenzie Community School is scheduled for Thursday, February 29th, from 6:00-7:30 pm. For Highview Public School and Champlain Discovery Public School area families, the FSL Family Information Night will take place at Highview Public School on Monday, March 4th, from 6:00-7:30 pm. Mark your calendars and seize this chance to explore the enriching educational opportunities awaiting your child.
(Written by: Emma Butler)