More kids going French

Photo: Wayne Moore - Castanet File Photo

The French immersion program in the Central Okanagan continues to be popular with parents and students.

The program has grown by about 10 per cent over last year according to preliminary figures released by School District 23.

District Supt. Kevin Kaardal said there are well over 100 new students enrolled in the program this year, and there is a waiting list in kindergarten.

"Last year's numbers were just over 2,300. We expect to be close to 2,500 this year," said Kaardal.

The district has set up a task force to look into how to solve the immediate problem of demand.

Kaardal said a report will be presented to the board this fall to provide further direction next year.

An increase in enrolment means a greater need for specialized teachers.

The popularity of the program has created a shortage of qualified teachers across the province.

"We are recruiting qualified teachers.

"It's always a challenge, but we actually are aggressive about going out and secure those teachers knowing the demand. So far, we have been very fortunate to have fully qualified teachers, but it is a challenge every year."