Supporting newcomers in our schools

St. Boniface

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 10/04/2024 (615 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Since the peak of COVID-19, immigration in Manitoba has picked up significantly. We are currently seeing more students of diverse backgrounds being enrolled in St. Boniface schools; upwards of 51 per cent of students in some St. Boniface schools are BIPOC. Seeing the diversity in our community and the increase in diverse cultures and languages is incredible. Educators now see that school’s role extends beyond simply being a place to learn. As we support the influx of newcomers, I’d like to acknowledge the support systems and networks we currently have.

The role of a school goes beyond a place to learn. Schools are cultural and family centres, support spaces, and community networks for many families. They also act as a place for guidance, partnerships, and community engagement. To meet the needs of our new community members, schools must pivot and re-envision their role in the lives of students and families. In St. Boniface, the Louis Riel School Division (LRSD) and the Division Scolaire Franco-Manitobaine (DSFM) have already recognized this need to shift.

Since 2012, the LRSD has been supported by Immigrants, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada to host the Neighbourhood Immigrant Settlement Worker (NISW) program. This program supports newcomers in their transition to life in Canada. Creating programs based on participant needs, the NISW works with teachers, administrators, local organizations, and families to provide support, services and resources.

In recognition of the increase in immigrant families in Manitoba, the DSFM offers newcomers various reception and integration services. The DSFM collaborates with community organizations to deliver services, resources, and support to immigrants. The division prioritizes good communication between families and teachers so students can be successful in their studies and employs an intercultural liaison officer to assist in transitioning newcomers into their current environments.

I applaud these school divisions for taking the initiative to ensure our newcomer families are being cared for. I know many schools have or are currently in the process of creating their own newcomer support systems. Similarly, our government is contributing to newcomer support in schools by announcing our universal school meal program – increasing food accessibility for all students.

Our NDP team supports immigrant families and understands the value of wrap-around supports. We look forward to expanding the capabilities of schools in Manitoba, investing in our education and student support systems, hiring more school staff, and ensuring that no Manitoban gets left behind.

Let’s keep in touch. If you have any concerns or issues you’d like to share, please visit my office at 118 Rue Marion (by appointment only). You can also call me at 204-505-2800 or send me an email at robert.loiselle@yourmanitoba.ca