Are there lessons in schools to support the Ukrainian language?

For many Ukrainian families who have moved to Calgary, it is important to preserve their native language and culture for their children, especially as they adapt to a new country and educational system. Therefore, the question of whether Calgary schools offer Ukrainian language classes is very relevant. In this article, we will look at the available opportunities for learning Ukrainian, existing programs, Saturday schools, and the prospects for opening Ukrainian schools in Calgary.

1. The status of the Ukrainian language in Calgary schools

Unfortunately, there are currently no public schools in Calgary with a bilingual Ukrainian program or Ukrainian language classes within the official school system. This means that Ukrainian is not taught as part of the curriculum in regular elementary, middle, or high schools in Calgary. However, there are alternative opportunities for children who want to learn Ukrainian and maintain ties with Ukrainian culture and history.

2. Ukrainian Saturday schools and extracurricular programs

2.1 Ridna Shkola at the Assumption Parish

  • This is a Saturday school for children aged 6 to 16, which operates on weekends.
  • The program includes the study of the Ukrainian language, literature, history, and culture.
  • Classes are held in a format that combines learning with cultural activities.
  • This school is one of the main ways to maintain the Ukrainian language among children who attend regular English-language schools in Calgary.

2.2 Ukrainian bilingual preschool “Sadok”

  • Designed for children aged 3 to 5.
  • Provides bilingual education, with Ukrainian as one of the main languages.
  • Helps develop language skills from an early age and maintains cultural identity.

2.3 Native schools for teenagers

  • The St. Vladimir Church runs a Native School for older school-age children (13-15 years old).
  • Classes are taught in Ukrainian using specially designed textbooks for learning Ukrainian as a foreign language.
  • The program not only helps students learn the language, but also maintains their connection to Ukrainian culture and history.

2.4 Youth organizations

  • The Ukrainian Youth Association (CYM) and other community organizations hold regular meetings, cultural events, and language clubs for young people.
  • This allows children and teenagers to practice Ukrainian in an informal atmosphere

3. Prospects for opening a Ukrainian school in Calgary

There is positive news: the opening of the first Ukrainian charter school is planned in Calgary. This will be a unique educational institution that will provide an opportunity to study according to the Ukrainian curriculum, with in-depth study of the native language and culture. This project is supported by Ukrainian communities and educators and will be an important step in preserving the linguistic and cultural identity of Ukrainians in Canada.

4. How can parents support their children's Ukrainian language learning?

  • Enroll your child in a Saturday Native School or Ukrainian kindergarten.
  • Participate in cultural events organized by Ukrainian communities in Calgary.
  • Use home resources: books, cartoons, songs in Ukrainian.
  • Encourage communication in Ukrainian within the family.
  • Follow news about the opening of Ukrainian schools and get involved in community initiatives.

5. Contact information and resources

  • Native School at the Assumption Parish: for children aged 6-16, information by phone or through the community.
  • Ukrainian bilingual kindergarten “Sadok”: for children aged 3-5.
  • Ukrainian Youth Association (CYM): youth meetings and programs.
  • Calgary Ukrainian School at Assumption: a school for teenagers, operating at St. Volodymyr's Church.
  • For advice and support, please contact organizations such as One World One Center (contact: (780) 944-2001).

Conclusion

Although there are currently no Ukrainian language classes in Calgary's public schools, there are a number of alternative opportunities for children and youth to maintain and develop their native language. Saturday schools, bilingual kindergartens, youth organizations, and the prospect of a Ukrainian charter school create a strong foundation for supporting the Ukrainian language and culture in Calgary. Parents can actively participate in these initiatives to help their children maintain a connection to their native language and culture.