Italian Language at York Catholic in danger of survival

TORONTO – The American motto “In God we Trust” may serve as a guide as you read this column.

For those who dismiss language as a significant “tool” in life, simply consider the billions of dollars the government of Canada and provincial/territorial government spend annually to ascertain the concept of bilingualism as the official language policy of the country.

Those expenditures support the view that the culture words – the ideologies they fashion, transmit and validate through literature, philosophy and religion – are part and parcel of an individual’s and community’s sense of self worth.  Canada, Australia and others are spending enormous amount of liquid capital, annually, to restore and promote Indigenous languages.

Is there an aspirant to any political Party in the country who expects success without the flexibility of functioning in [a] second official language? Language figures almost as significantly in international relations and commerce. Our education systems ignore this reality at our, and their, disadvantage and to the detriment of [our] children who they propose to prepare for life’s challenges.

Some Trustees in the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB), lead by Angela Saggese and Maria Iafrate, acted upon this concept. They partnered with local private/community sector agencies and, thanks to the assistance and intervention  of the Consul General of Italy (Luca Zelioli), secured funds available to Diaspora communities to establish Italian language programs as part of a “regular curriculum” subject (extended day) in elementary schools where the “numbers warrant”.

After initial applause in the Spring, some members of the Board of Trustees and the Administration are holding back on the implementation. Watch the relevant parts of the “debate” at the YCDSB, September 30 (from 1:14:00 to 2:16:00 of the video of the meeting, here below  – YCDSB REMOVED THE VIDEO FROM ITS YOUTUBE CHANNEL YESTERDAY AFTERNOON).

One parent community member, represented by Laura De Francesco delegated properly and with vigour for its immediate installation at her home school, population 900 elementary students – the vast majority of the families being of Italian heritage. The Board has yet to conduct an “official survey” of potential interest. De Francesco claims her informal/non-Board sanctioned poll indicated support in the 90% range. Twenty-one other schools provide an after-school program.

Trustee Saggese provided a presentation in an attempt to illustrate that the offer is a “no-brainer” (my words): (1) critical mass of number to ensure successful enrolment challenges and minimal disruptions for accommodating bus schedules; (2) an existing curriculum with trained staff available; (3) willing/eager students; (4) equally committed parents; (5) private sector financial support; and (6) a financial contribution by a an interested third party – the government of Italy. Cost to the YCDSB? Virtually zero!

Regrettably at least three trustees seem driven by “a desire to kill the program before it gets off the ground”, Grella and Wigston – elected from Vaughan – in particular. God help us all.

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