French immersion programs are intended for students whose first language is not French. Students will be functionally fluent in French and develop an appreciation of the French language and francophone cultures. This program prepares students to pursue postsecondary education in French.
Students are usually introduced to early immersion in Kindergarten or Grade 1. Late immersion is typically introduced at the Grade 7 level. French is used as the language of instruction in many subject areas for a significant part of each school day.
Readers are encouraged to access Yes, you can help!, an online Alberta Education resource designed to provide parents of French immersion students with clear and complete information about French immersion programming. Also, the Canadian Parents for French (Alberta Branch) website offers valuable information about French as a second language and French immersion programs.