Early learners benefit from English as a Second Language and Francisation programming
Edmonton... The important role language development plays in a child's education will be recognized this September when the Alberta government extends English as a Second Language (ESL) and Francisation programs to children as young as 3½ years old.
Budget 2007 provides $7 million in new funding to help school jurisdictions build language skills for children. The English as a Second Language and Francisation programming will be offered through recognized Early Childhood Services (ECS) programs and is the first initiative announced in support of the Minister of Education's priority to explore options to provide children with access to early learning opportunities.
"Language development is a cornerstone to learning for children and provides a foundation for success through their education years," said Ron Liepert, Minister of Education. "This programming recognizes the diversity of our students and will be designed to support young children's experiences with language. It is our plan to work collaboratively with other government departments and educational stakeholders to look at other innovative strategies to make sure our children are healthy and keen to be lifelong learners."
There are a number of programs currently available for young children through Alberta Education. Early Childhood Services programs for children aged 3½ to six years with mild or moderate special needs or as young as 2½ to six years with severe needs are available for children who are enrolled in a recognized program, whether at their local school or an accredited private ECS operator such as HeadStart. Alberta Education supports these early intervention programs, including those that address language development delay, behavioural concerns, and development delays with fine or gross motor skills.
Early Childhood Services also includes one school year of regular half-day Kindergarten programming for all children.
Budget 2007 includes nearly $5.8 billion including education property tax support - an increase of $204 million over the previous year in support of K-12 education. As a result of this budget, Alberta Education will spend $29 million every school day or $6.1 million every instructional hour on the education of K-12 students.
Other priorities under Premier Stelmach's plan to build a stronger Alberta are to: govern with integrity and transparency, manage growth pressures, improve Albertans' quality of life and provide safe and secure communities.
