Dear Golden Ears Elementary families,
After careful consideration of both educational and space planning needs, the Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows School District has made the decision to move the Late French Immersion program from Golden Ears Elementary to Eric Langton Elementary beginning in the 2026/27 school year.
Moving the program to Eric Langton will place students and teachers within a larger French Immersion community that includes more French-speaking educators, support staff, and a French-speaking principal. This richer environment will strengthen collaboration, peer learning, and the overall language experience for students.
The change also addresses growing space pressures at Golden Ears Elementary. The school is currently full and has a waitlist, while Eric Langton’s new building will provide modern classrooms and room for future growth. This move helps balance enrolment across schools while supporting long-term planning for the district.
To support a smooth transition:
- The current group of Grade 6 Late French Immersion students will remain at Golden Ears Elementary to complete Grade 7 in the 2026/27 school year.
- Students currently in Grade 5 across the district who wish to enrol in the Late French Immersion program will begin the program at Eric Langton Elementary in September 2026.
We know that change can bring questions, and we are committed to keeping families well informed throughout this process. More information about registration and transition planning will be shared in the coming weeks. A list of frequently asked questions is available below.
Thank you for your continued support as we plan for the best possible learning environments for all students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Late French Immersion Program Transition from Golden Ears Elementary to Eric Langton Elementary
What is changing?
Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, the Late French Immersion program will move from Golden Ears Elementary to Eric Langton Elementary. Starting that year, all new Grade 6 students entering the Late French Immersion program will attend Eric Langton.
Why is the program moving?
The decision was made to strengthen learning opportunities for students and to address long-term space needs.
- Educational benefits: By joining a larger French Immersion community at Eric Langton, students and staff will have access to more French-speaking teachers, support staff, and a French-speaking principal. This will create a richer and more connected language-learning environment.
- Facility planning: Golden Ears Elementary is currently full and has a waitlist, while Eric Langton’s new building will offer modern classrooms and additional space. The move helps balance enrolment across schools while supporting future growth.
When will the move take effect?
The transition begins in September 2026.
- Current Grade 6 Late French Immersion students will remain at Golden Ears to complete Grade 7 in the 2026/27 school year.
- Students currently in Grade 5 who wish to begin Late French Immersion will start the program at Eric Langton in September 2026.
What grades does the Late French Immersion program include?
The program serves students in Grades 6 and 7. Students begin French Immersion in Grade 6 after completing their elementary years in the English program.
What will happen to the French Immersion teachers at Golden Ears?
The Grade 7 French Immersion teacher will continue with the program at Golden Ears for the 2026/27 school year, ensuring continuity for students entering Grade 7. The Grade 6 position will be posted in accordance with district HR processes.
How will this change affect Golden Ears Elementary?
Golden Ears will continue to offer a full range of English-language programming. Moving the Late French Immersion program will help alleviate current space pressures and ensure classrooms are available for local students as enrolment continues to grow.
Will there be changes to staffing or class sizes at Golden Ears?
No significant changes are expected. Staffing will continue to reflect enrolment needs.
How and when can families register for Late French Immersion?
Registration for the 2026/27 school year will take place through the district’s online portal starting February 11, 2026. Families interested in the program are invited to attend a parent information session at Eric Langton Elementary on February 3, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
Who can families contact with questions?
Families are encouraged to reach out to Golden Ears Elementary Principal Tom Levesque or District Principal Jennifer Simon (jennifer_simon@sd42.ca) with any questions about the transition or registration process.