French-language education in Simcoe County

This thesis traces the development of French-language and French-second-language education in public schools in Simcoe County. It examines the challenge of reconciling the French and English languages and cultures, which dominates Simcoe County, and indeed, Canada's history. It reviews the role of legislation, both federal and provincial, in the creation and implementation of French-language programs in Ontario. It recounts the attempts that have been made to bridge the linguistic and cultural gap that exists between the English and French, by government and individuals alike; and the success of Simcoe County's extended French classes in achieving this. The students in the extended French program seem to have a greater respect and understanding of the duality that exists in our country, an understanding that is essential to national unity. This thesis consists of four chapters. Chapter one examines the historical context of French in Simcoe County, concentrating on the Penetanguishene and Lafontaine areas. Chapter two examines government policy, at the federal and provincial levels, that was and is relevant to French-language education. Chapter three examines the French-second-language programs in Simcoe County and the individuals who sought to implement more comprehensive programs. Chapter four examines the existing extended French program in Simcoe County at Barrie Central Collegiate, in order to assess its strengths, weaknesses and future direction.