Committee III met tonight to discuss a 2010 start for the early Mandarin Bilingual program in advance of Monday Dec 21st Vancouver School Board vote.

After a brief speech to Committee III by Eileen Sue on behalf of the parents, the Task Force Report was presented by Valerie Overgaard and then discussion ensued over the feasibility to implement the program during a time of budgetary constraints and cutbacks.

Several points come to mind:

1. Of the three choices to be presented to the Board, the first one was the most popular i.e. approval for a Sept 2010 intake.
2. Although John Norquay Elementary School is a recommendation, consultative work still has to be done with the local school parents before the program location is agreed upon but it seemed to be a good choice according to Facilities and District Management.
3. Much of the discussion was around the financial aspects of the program, especially since the Committee I/III meeting just prior to this meeting emphasized review of all school programs to determine their value and costs.
4. Resources and curriculum development costs could be shared with Coquitlam since they will be starting a bilingual program as well.

It appears that a majority of stakeholders, trustees included, are supportive of seeing the program go ahead for a September 2010 start.  However, some trustees are clearly not supportive mainly due to the resource constraints that they know the school district will be facing in the spring.

It was mentioned by several trustees that they have been receiving letters and email from many parents and thus they understand parent’s desire for this program.  These efforts are working thus we please ask that you please email or send letters supporting the proposal to the Vancouver School Board trustees in advance of Monday December 21st meeting.    (Email addresses are below.)

The final decision will be made at the next Board meeting December 21/09 at the VSB at 7:00 pm. Trustees will vote as to whether or not to approve the program for Sept. 2010 start and if so, when the intake will be.

We know that it is a busy time of the year, but we encourage parents to write that email and if possible come out on Monday night to show your support for the program.  Let’s hope we will all receive an early Christmas gift!

Best wishes for the holiday season,

Vancouver School Board Trustees and Email Addresses: