Returning to School in Ontario: A Guide for Newly Arrived Refugee & Immigrant Families

In most regions in Ontario, the school year runs from September to June. As we are near the end of August, this is a time of transitions and change, and it can bring a mixture of excitement and nerves. The return-to-school period occurs just prior to Canada’s Welcome Week; a time where we officially celebrate and welcome newly arrived refugees and immigrants.

In upcoming articles, we will highlight Welcome Week further, as well as our work with newly arrived families this summer. With these influences in mind, we’re sharing important information related to school registration and support available. Within Ontario, there are several programs that offer service to refugee and immigrant families as they settle in; we’re including these and related school tips.

Child Rights & Registration

   •  In Ontario, all children aged 6 to 18 have the right to attend public school—regardless of their immigration or refugee status. There may, at times, be fees requested and this is often based on the immigration status of the student.

   •  To begin school registration, contact your local school board to find the appropriate school and get help with registration. You may also request information about busing or other school transportation available.

   •  In Peel Region, and some other communities, there are Welcome Centres adept at supporting newly arrived families as they enroll children/youth in school: Welcome Centres - Peel Board Office Site

   •  Some school boards offer Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) staff, who can assist refugee and immigrant families navigating education systems

Immunizations & Healthcare

   •  Schools may request copies of health cards, and other Identity Documents, as well as immunization records

   •  In light of recent measles outbreaks in Ontario and broader concerns about child and maternal immunizations, The Hospital for Sick Children (Sick Kids) is offering the Immunization InfoLine. This is a free, province-wide service available in any language. Caregivers can easily book an appointment online: Immunization InfoLine | SickKids

   •  Healthcare support is also available in many regions across Ontario, including Peel Region: Home | Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario

   •  Being mindful of mental health, some schools have social workers on staff (and/or other mental health professionals), who can offer psycho-social support within the education setting. These professionals can also make referrals to community organizations as needed.

Planning & Preparing for School

   • Families may request tours or attend school visits. This is a good way to meet staff and see the learning spaces available

   •  Parents may begin to adjust schedules and routines at home, to ease the return to school, such as changes to bedtimes and morning routines.

   •  It is recommended to label school supplies, such as backpacks or lunch bags

   •  The school website or newsletters can be a good way to be aware of any changes or new communication. Parents can look out for invites to attend parent-teacher meetings later this fall, to discuss your child’s transition to school

   • Determine if there are extracurricular activities your child would enjoy at school – such as clubs or sports teams children/youth can join

   •  Families may access other extra-curricular programs through various service providers including YMCA Ontario and/or through Regional/Municipal community and recreation centres across Ontario

   •  In Ontario, children and youth can attend programming through Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario

Settling in & Ongoing School Supports

   •  New students in Ontario (or returning students who have been away for a period of time), may be offered guidance in English as a Second Language (ESL) programs

   •  French-speaking refugees and immigrants may find programs through La Passerelle‑I.D.É., which supports Francophone immigrants in integration, education, and economic development

   •  Within the community, there are other educational/learning resources available:

   •  There is free educational programming for children, provided by TVO: Educator Resources | TVO.me Outreach

   •  For high school students, TVO’s Independent Learning Centre (ILC) offers accredited online and distance-learning courses, allowing flexibility in earning high school credits  TVO ILC | Ontario's largest online high school

   •  There are also free public libraries in every community. Helping students obtain library cards, for free, can be a great way to access additional resources: Ontario public libraries | ontario.ca

   •  For younger siblings at home, who will one day attend school, there are also programs for younger children that support their learning/development

               •  Find an EarlyON child and family centre | ontario.ca

               •  Search for licensed child care

               •  Financial support for child care | ontario.ca

We recognize attending/returning to school marks a meaningful step in building a new life in Canada. Our staff in CWICE, along with Ontario’s school professionals and those in health and community organizations, remain committed to supporting refugee and immigrant families during this transition. We send our best wishes to all those returning to the classroom this fall!

To request service from CWICE, please email cwice@peelcas.org

Related information:

Microsoft Word - Right to Attend Dec 2022

About the author:

Danielle Ungara (she/her) is a Registered Social Worker and a dedicated leader known for her creativity, and commitment to excellence and equity in practice. As CWICE Manager, Danielle has brought innovative thinking and strategic leadership to the Centre of Excellence since its inception.