CPF Magazine Fall 2020 Issue

Félicitations finissants
de la classe de 2020!
Celebrating Meadow Lake’s First French Immersion Graduating Class
Last summer marked an important
milestone in the city of Meadow
Lake, Saskatchewan, as it saw its
first French immersion class finish
high school.
While graduations are always a
special occasion, for the graduating
class of Carpenter High School from the
Northwest School Division, it was even
more special as it represented years of
hard work not only in their studies but
also of advocating for access to French
second language education.
Even though Saskatchewan has seen
increased popularity and demand for
French immersion (FI), accessing these
programs has not always been easy.
Many times throughout their education
these students faced the risk of not being
able to continue their French education.
During their time in Grade 10, they did
not have a teacher but were determined
to continue in the program and ensure
its future existence so they simply moved
their classes online.
In a moving letter written by the six
students, they explained the challenges
and joys of being the first graduating
French immersion class in their school
division, “although there were some
struggles, the benefits of FI far outweigh
the negatives. Through this program, we
have learned valuable life skills, such as
the value of education, a strong work
ethic, to set goals and achieve them […]
and confidence. We have been able to
travel and communicate both in Canada
and abroad (Quebec, France).”
CPF National was thrilled to hear the
news about the first French immersion
class graduating from Meadow Lake,
as it is a reminder of the importance of
working towards creating opportunities
to learn French.
“We are so pleased for you and
hope, as trailblazers, you will commit
to advocating for the program going
forward. We loved reading your joint
letter sharing your reflections of your
experience. Hearing personal testimonials
makes all the difference – and you have a
great story to share!” said Nicole Thibault,
CPF National Executive Director.
We hope this class’s journey serves as
an inspiration to other students currently
in French immersion, along with their
parents. Know that the effort and hard
work are all worth it! In their letter, the
students concluded, “If we had to do it all
over again, we would enroll in FI without
giving it a second thought. Without a
doubt our future is shining bright.”
Today, French immersion continues
to be offered in the North West School
Division and has more than 100 students
currently enrolled.
Congratulations Claire, Emma,
Meaya, Tori, Haley and Aiden. n
10 CPF MAGAZINE FALL 2020