But the number of French speakers in Maine is dwindling, leading some to fear for their future. Like Thornton, many francophone Mainers decided not to pass down their language in the 20th century.

St. Donat staff can welcome families in five languages: French, English, Spanish, Arabic and Ukrainian – for the recent refugees who have fled to Canada following Russia’s invasion.

Boosting French-language knowledge requirements for temporary foreign workers and foreign students under the Quebec Experience Program, also known as the PEQ.

Legault speaks at a news conference on immigration and French language, at the legislature in Quebec City, Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot ...

Hosting welcome classes is new for Dupont and St-Donat — the school started offering the intensive French courses last fall. Eighty students are enrolled; the school has space for 100.