During the early seventies, the number and ethnic origin of immigrants to British Columbia has changed to such an extent that the B.C. school system has felt the effect. Teachers in the elementary grades increasingly were faced with students who lacked fluency in the language of instruction. When it was discovered that a third of the students under the supervision of the Vancouver School Board spoke English as a second language (ESL), funds were made available to double the existing ESL program. This included increasing programs for training teachers of ESL. The quality and quantity of summer programs for ESL children were increased, as were programs to assist parents and children in adjusting to a new culture. In addition, teachers are seeking information on the cultural backgrounds of immigrant children. It is suggested that the Department of Education could assist school districts by providing expertise in the area of program and curriculum development, and by coordinating ESL and orientation programs for immigrants and their families. (AM)