At Acadia School, one educator is reshaping how students experience French language learning. Dana Popic, a dedicated educator at Acadia School, has been named the recipient of the Canadian Parents for French Award for Best French as a Second Language (FSL) Educator of the Year in Alberta – the second consecutive year a CBE educator has been honoured with this recognition!

Over the past two years, Dana, a grades 3-6 French as a Second Language (FSL) teacher has introduced innovative teaching methods that connect directly to students' interests and diverse learning needs. By incorporating popular French music, interactive cultural experiences, and hands-on learning tools, her classroom has become a dynamic environment where language comes alive – and the results speak for themselves.

"Since Dana joined the staff, Acadia School has seen a steady increase in the number of students choosing to pursue late French immersion at its feeder school, David Thompson School," says Lisa Bartel, Principal of Acadia School. "Dana has brought such excitement and a love of French learning to our school."

Promoting French Language and Culture Beyond the Classroom

Dana's impact extends beyond her classroom. She recently shared her teaching strategies during a Calgary Board of Education professional learning day, where her presentation received enthusiastic feedback from fellow educators. Attendees praised her practical and adaptable approaches, many noting they could immediately implement her ideas in their own classrooms.

Dana has also played a pivotal role in bringing authentic French cultural experiences to Acadia School. Through successful applications for federal OLEP (Official Languages in Education Program) funding over the past two years, she has introduced students to professional francophone artists and performers including a dance residency with french culture and roots, which engaged students in French-language dance workshops.

These opportunities ensure that every student, from Kindergarten through Grade 6, experiences French culture firsthand, creating an inclusive approach that strengthens school-wide engagement and cultural awareness.

"Her energy is contagious, and her work has had a lasting impact on both students and staff," says Principal Bartel.