Educational expectations varied greatly among Chinese Canadian families during the period from 1923 to 1967, though schooling was generally respected. Before the 1940s, certain professions were mostly closed to Chinese Canadians, so there was little emphasis on education as a pathway to employment. Nevertheless, it was generally recognized as useful and desirable for children to have at least a basic education and literacy. After World War Two, Chinese Canadians enjoyed improved professional opportunities, and some families insisted that children obtain the diplomas and degrees that would allow them to get ahead in Canadian society.