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THE ONTARIO MINISTRY OF EDUCATION “ is committed to ensuring that the philosophy of multiculturalism permeates all aspects of school life and that all students are able to see their own culture reflected in the curriculum. Since language is a primary vehicle for cultural awareness, understanding and expression, an important aim of the International Languages Program is to help students to deepen their knowledge of the cultural context of the languages of study. ” Heritage Language Resource Guide, 1991
“Maintaining the first language by speaking it at home and by attending international languages classes is also of importance to the psychological and emotional development of students. Language forms an integral part of culture. Retaining the mother tongue provided an important aspect of the student’s retention of her/his cultural heritage and cultural identity. It is important for students to see their heritage language and culture of origin validated by the school if they are to develop positive self-esteem and pride in their cultural identity." Dr. Helene Ijaz (Ministry of Education) “The observable advantage of bilingual or multilingual is that they are more used to switching thought patterns and have more flexible minds.” Dr. Tove Skutnabb-Kangas (University of Roskilde) “…promoting the development of minority children’s first language the school program contributes to their acquisition of second language academic skills, as well as to their overall intellectual growth.” Dr. Jim Cummins (Ontario Institute of Studies in Education)
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