Ukrainian Education Programs

Ukrainian Language Education In Canada

By their very nature, international language programs prepare students for expanding global opportunities. In addition to linguistic flexibility, language education also encourages astuteness regarding international issues, heightened cultural sensitivity, creativity and intellectual growth – all highly desirable attributes for employers in business, industry, international trade, finance, technology, government and many professions.

Ukrainian language programs in Canada assist students in maintaining a network of communication with speakers of Ukrainian in many countries, including Ukraine. These students will be prepared to draw upon their language skills as necessary during the course of their lifetime - whether it be for an important trade partnership, business venture, cultural excursion or an extended family visit.

Parental leadership and community support are the driving force behind every strong, vibrant Ukrainian language program in Canada. A good example can be found in Western Canada, where a concerted parental effort in the early 1970’s led to the establishment of school-based Ukrainian-English bilingual programs in the provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Many Ukrainian community groups play a pivotal role in organizing pre-school programs (Sadochky), after-school or Saturday programs (Ridni Shkoly) and high school Ukrainian credit classes.

Ukrainian language camps and scouting camps are popular during the summer months. Children and youth enjoy the opportunity to expand their Ukrainian language repertoire while participating in outdoor activities.

Program Descriptions

In-School Programs:

Bilingual Programs

K-8: In a bilingual education program, students are immersed in the target language for up to one-half of each school day. The Ukrainian-English Bilingual model has been a popular alternative to total immersion, and has provided the incentive for the establishment of other bilingual education programs in Alberta and Manitoba, such as German-English, Mandarin-English, Hebrew-English, Cree-English and Spanish-English programs. To date, Saskatchewan offers the K-8 Ukrainian-English Bilingual Program at one elementary school in Saskatoon.

9-12: At the high school level, one class per semester is offered in either Ukrainian Language Arts or Ukrainian Christian Ethics in Grades 9 to 12. A highlight in the senior grades is the opportunity to participate in a student exchange with Ukraine.

Core Programs

K-8: Core language programs are those in which the target language is taught as a school subject, much like Social Studies or Science. While a Core Ukrainian program may begin at any elementary grade level, an early start in the primary grades is always encouraged. When more time is spent learning the target language, students are able to experience greater progress with communication skills.

9-12: In high school, students receive provincial credits for successful completion of their Ukrainian language courses. Credit courses (also called Kursy) may be taught during school hours, after school hours, by correspondence or during the summer months. In each case, qualified teachers and the appropriate number of hours of instruction must be provided in order to meet provincial requirements. Provincial credits are transferable to other provinces or jurisdictions.

Out – of – School (After-School) Programs

Ridna Shkola: These Ukrainian programs, organized and offered by local community groups, usually take place once a week after regular school hours. The curriculum is often comprised of some instruction in language, culture, history and spirituality. Out-of-school Ukrainian program are an added commitment to a family’s schedule, much like music lessons, dance lessons, swimming or sports.

Sadochok: This term is used to describe Ukrainian Pre-school or Nursery School. Weekly schedules, location, type of program and teacher qualifications may vary. These programs establish meaningful connections to the Ukrainian community for young families with children. They also help parents to understand the benefits of having children nurtured in an environment of Ukrainian language and culture.

Ukrainian Language Education in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan Learning is responsible for all Pre-School, Kindergarten and Grades 1-12 Ukrainian language programs in the province. Language instruction is delivered during regular school hours or through out-of-school language programs organized by ethnocultural organizations, with the assistance of Saskatchewan Learning.

Courses for adults interested in pursuing Ukrainian language learning are also available, although choices are somewhat limited.

For detailed information and locations of specific programs, please select a category from the menu provided at the top of this page (Pre-School, Elementary, High School, Adult).

If you have any questions or would like to speak with someone about Ukrainian language education in Saskatchewan, contact the Ukrainian Education Consultant at (Tel) 306.933-8497.

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