Expanding Horizons through Language and Culture Programs at EIPS

A.L. Horton Elementary students in the Ukrainian Language and Culture program create paska—a Ukrainian Easter bread typically decorated with braids and other designs.

Sherwood Park, AB. — Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) students are enriching their language learning experience through two Language and Culture (LAC) programs—one in German and one in Ukrainian. The programs are offered from kindergarten through Grade 6, introducing students to another language through instruction, activities and cultural celebrations.

“Deutsch ist wunderbar,” says Grady Anderson, a Grade 5 student in the German LAC program at Mills Haven Elementary. “Learning more things is great.”

LAC programs benefit students in numerous ways. Second-language learning can improve listening skills, communication in English and test scores in other subjects, such as mathematics. These programs also promote acceptance and appreciation of other cultures and help many students learn about their own heritage. “I like learning about my heritage because I’m German,” says Lincoln McDade, a Grade 6 student at Mills Haven. “I like the apple strudel!”

Each LAC program has its unique advantages. For example, classes in the German LAC program embark on a language journey that ties in famous German fairy tales, gummy bears, the Berlin Bären, and more. “Having had the privilege of participating in many different language programs, I still get very passionate about sharing their values and their necessities—especially in today’s fast-paced world of ever-changing social norms, global communications and international business dialogue,” says Pia Jampen, a teacher at Mills Haven.

Meanwhile, students in the Ukrainian LAC program immerse themselves in the culture. “In the program, students can expect to learn about traditions and celebrations through activities, such as embroidery, making paska, and creating pysanky—also known as Ukrainian Easter eggs,” says Trina Horon, a teacher at A.L. Horton Elementary. “They’ll learn and use every day Ukrainian language skills, which they share with the community in various ways.”

In addition to LAC programs, students can learn various second languages at schools throughout the Division—including French, Spanish, German and Ukrainian.

“I enjoy learning about the culture, history and current events of Ukraine,” says Shelby Crowther, a Grade 5 student at A.L. Horton. “Whether it’s painting or embroidery, I’m excited to learn Ukrainian traditions. I recommend the program to students who are not familiar with another culture or would like to expand their knowledge of the Ukrainian language and culture. They’ll find out about other cultures and places too.”

LAC programs are currently offered at the following locations:

German: Mills Haven Elementary, Sherwood Park
Ukrainian: A.L. Horton Elementary, Vegreville

Interested students and families are invited to attend an upcoming Ukrainian LAC program information session:

Event Details:
Date: Feb. 4, 2025
Time: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: A.L. Horton Elementary
5037 48 Ave., Vegreville, AB

Those interested in the German LAC program at Mills Haven Elementary can contact the school directly for more information.

New and returning students may apply to a school offering an LAC program during the registration process in February. For key registration dates, see the EIPS Guide to Registration 2025-26.

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,950 students in 42 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties, and the western portion of the County of Minburn.

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For more information, media can contact:
Laura McNabb, Director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902