Giving our newcomer families a warm welcome

In Pembina Trails, we have a diverse community of newcomers. We understand that planting roots in a new country can be challenging and that is why we strive to support English as an Additional Language students. Many of our schools host newcomer evenings as a way for families to connect and share not only stories but resources.

Henry G. Izatt Middle School recently held a special evening for its growing newcomer population. Harry Sun and his family arrived from China only a few weeks ago, still the grade 8 student says he already feels at home.

"HGI is pretty big. Bigger than I thought. My classmates here are very friendly. First thing I saw was gym and I love sports. Before I left China I was dreaming of things I'd see and do here," said Harry.

His mother, Tracy Sun was impressed by the school's effort to welcome her family.

"It feels very warm. A warm welcome everywhere. It helps me to know new friends and communicate with other parents and to get to know education in Canada. How to make the most benefit," shared Mrs. Sun.

The main purpose of HGI's newcomer evenings is to:

• give parents information about school life, events and activities;
• share information about "Life in Canada" as it relates to food, clothing, weather and education;
• help make connections with other families and in the community such as settlement workers;
• share information about report cards, how the educational system works and provide parents with an interpreter.

"These parent nights are extremely important for our families. It gives them a sense of belonging in their new community and opportunity to find out how their child is doing academically, socially and emotionally. It also gives them a sense of home, where they can meet and chat with friends having similar new experiences", shared teachers Vicki Flynn and Heather McDevitt.