LETTER

Benefits of learning French as a second language 

According to Stats Canada, Canadians who speak both French and English earn, on average, 10 per cent more and have a lower unemployment rate, compared to Canadians who only speak one of our two official languages.

As well, there are cognitive developmental benefits of learning an additional language, such as: stronger listening skills, improved focus and concentration, increased ability to understand complex problems, and a higher tolerance, insight and understanding of other cultures.

French Teacher Shortage: In the spring of 2018, the federal government announced $62 million in new monies for French teacher recruitment and retention.  Last March, BC Education Minister Rob Fleming went to France and Belgium to sign bilateral agreements to help French speaking teachers come to BC.  Finally, this past fall, the provincial government opened 37 new French teacher training positions at SFU and UBC Okanagan. 

Glyn Lewis, 

Canadian Parents for French BC & YK

Vancouver