American Education
Ruly and Christine Zachary, 1970s
A New System
Gisele and Ruly almost immediately found problems with the education system in Wilbraham. First of all, the Zachary family primarily spoke French in the household. For over the first 9 years of being in America, they only spoke French. It wasn't until Christine (second born child) broke the barriers and suggested speaking English. For a school system in the 1970s, teachers were less experienced with teaching kids who hadn't learned English as a toddler. Although it seemed concerning in the moment, Christine and Kimon quickly picked up English in the schools. However, due to their European heritage, Kimon faced issues with being asked to stay back a grade in school.
"It was difficult never to hear my own language spoken or used outside our own home. Language is a function of culture, it needs community to live and thrive. However, it was not easy for our children to be considered different" (Gisele).
Education System.mp4
Kimon Zachary graduating from Harvard
Gisele and Christine, 1980s
Although it seemed as if Christine and Kimon would struggle through learning in school while speaking a different language at home, they strived and did very well academically. "We soon realized that American higher education was very expensive. My husband and I came from a tradition in which academic excellence is valued and expected, and we wanted our children to have every opportunity to attend the college of their choice, for as long as they wanted to obtain their professional credentials. This made early planning and saving a necessity and it did influence our lifestyle" (Gisele). Kimon attended Harvard University and Christine attended Clark University. The prejudice of the school system had failed, and Gisele had successfully raised two children.
