What additional programs do schools offer for immigrants?

Immigration is always a challenge, especially for children who find themselves in a new educational system with a different language, culture and rules. In Calgary, schools and local organizations offer a wide range of supplemental programs to help immigrants adapt, succeed in school, and integrate into Canadian society. In this article, we will take a closer look at the main types of such programs, their goals and features.

1. Adaptation and mentoring programs

What is it?

Adaptation programs help newly arrived children get used to a new school, learning process, and social environment faster. Mentoring involves support from older students, volunteers or specially trained teachers.

Features

  • Help in getting acquainted with the school rules and schedule.
  • Support in forming friendships.
  • Promoting the development of social skills.
  • Psychological support in overcoming the stress of adaptation.

Examples

  • Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth** is an organization that provides mentoring and adaptation programs for newcomers to Calgary.

2. English as a second language (ESL/EAL) courses

What is it?

ESL (English as a Second Language) or EAL (English as an Additional Language) are special courses that help children and adults learn the English language they need for school and everyday life.

Features

  • Learning levels from beginner to advanced.
  • Intensive language courses integrated into the educational process.
  • Use of modern language teaching methods.
  • Support in the development of reading, writing, speaking and listening skills.

Examples.

  • Immigrant Services Calgary - offers free ESL programs for children and adults.
  • Calgary schools have their own ESL programs that adapt instruction to the student's level of proficiency.

3. Parent and family support programs

What is it?

The support of the whole family is important for the successful adaptation of a child. Programs for parents help them to understand the education system, social services and cultural characteristics of Canada.

Features

  • Consultations on paperwork and school registration.
  • Information sessions about the Canadian education system.
  • English language courses for parents.
  • Psychological support and assistance in solving social issues.

Examples

  • Calgary Catholic Immigration Society** - provides comprehensive support to immigrant families, including educational programs for parents.
  • Immigrant Services Calgary - organizes trainings and counseling for newly arrived families.

4. Extracurricular and cultural programs for children

What is it?

These programs are aimed at developing talents, socializing and preserving cultural identity.

Features

  • Cultural festivals, celebrations of national holidays.
  • Sports sections, art clubs, music schools.
  • Programs for learning the native language and culture (e.g. Ukrainian).
  • Social events that promote integration.

Examples.

  • The Calgary Catholic Immigration Society and the Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth regularly organize cultural and sporting events for youth.

5. Translation and language support services

What is it?

For many newly arrived families, English is a challenge, so schools and organizations provide interpretation services and assistance in their native language.

Features

  • Interpreters during registration and parent-teacher conferences.
  • Information materials in the native language.
  • Support in communicating with teachers and school administrators.

Examples

  • The Calgary Catholic Immigration Society and Immigrant Services Calgary provide language support for Ukrainian families.

6. Summer educational programs and camps

What is it?

Summer programs help children maintain their academic level and develop new skills during the holidays.

Features

  • English language courses.
  • Sports and creative camps.
  • Socialization and recreation programs.

Examples.

  • Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth** organizes summer camps for children and youth from different cultural backgrounds.

Conclusion

Calgary schools, in partnership with local immigrant organizations, offer a wide range of immigrant supplemental programs to help children and their families successfully adjust, learn English, integrate into their new community, and develop their talents. These programs create a comfortable environment for learning and socialization, which is key to a successful future.