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Newcomer Services

October 30, 2025

We are committed to nurturing the full potential of newcomer students by supporting their academic success, psychosocial well-being, and settlement journey. Grounded in joy, love and rigour, we provide equitable access to resources and foster inclusive practices that empower students and families to thrive in a diverse and interconnected learning community.

Newcomer Services Team

Our team includes 10 Intercultural Support Workers (ISWs) located across 20 different schools, a Newcomer Services Coordinator, and an EAL and Newcomer Services Divisional Support Teacher. Together, they work collaboratively to support newcomer students, families, schools, and communities by

  • Assisting newcomers in accessing education, community, and settlement needs
  • Equipping school staff with the knowledge and resources needed to foster an inclusive and equitable learning environment
  • Partnering with community organizations to strengthen support for newcomers

Wrap-around support

  • We provide holistic support to newcomer students, families, and schools through the following services: Assist with school registration and intake processes.
  • Provide school orientation in the student’s preferred language.
  • Help caregivers understand and engage with the school system.
  • Offer interpretation and translation services for students, caregivers, and school staff.
  • Support communication during assessments, parent-teacher conferences, and school meetings.
  • Address academic, psychosocial, and settlement-related challenges.
  • Provide educational and settlement services.
  • Advocate for students and caregivers within the school system.
  • Link students and families to school, community, and settlement resources.
  • Collaborate with internal school teams and external agencies to deliver newcomer-focused programming.
  • Coordinate and facilitate workshops and programs for students and caregivers.
  • Organize staff training on newcomer-related topics, including cultural awareness.
  • Assist with access to transportation for school and settlement-related appointments.
  • Provide information about post-secondary education pathways.
  • Recruit caregivers for school activities and parent groups.

Contact

Abdikadir D. Ahmed, Newcomer Services Coordinator
204-788-0203
aahmed@wsd1.org

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