Cindy's Conclusions
While the idea of offering bilingual programs that are representative of Canada's pluralistic society is nice, the research hasn't convinced me of either it's feasibility or of it being truly necessary.
The only bilingual programs that I believe should be promoted within the Canadian context are the current official languages - French and English - and Aboriginal languages, as within Canada they are the only languages that are in danger of becoming extinct. Also, for Aboriginal students, learning their language is not simply a luxury or a way to maintain their culture. For them, I believe it really will make a difference in their education success.
I believe that as language is an unifying element in a country, newcomers should be expected to learn the official languages of Canada. Indeed, this is what many parents prefer their children to do. Maintaining their own language is their responsibility; if school boards have both the need and available funds to offer heritage languages, that is their prerogative.
The only bilingual programs that I believe should be promoted within the Canadian context are the current official languages - French and English - and Aboriginal languages, as within Canada they are the only languages that are in danger of becoming extinct. Also, for Aboriginal students, learning their language is not simply a luxury or a way to maintain their culture. For them, I believe it really will make a difference in their education success.
I believe that as language is an unifying element in a country, newcomers should be expected to learn the official languages of Canada. Indeed, this is what many parents prefer their children to do. Maintaining their own language is their responsibility; if school boards have both the need and available funds to offer heritage languages, that is their prerogative.