Programs

Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)

swis

Helping new families

The primary focus of the school-based settlement service is to assist parents and their children with first-year settlement needs. The emphasis is on facilitation of settlement and integration of newcomer families through referrals and cross-cultural education. More specifically, the program is intended to provide:

  • Initial support and outreach to all newcomer families in the district
  • Orientation and information workshops on school, community and settlement topics
  • Needs assessment and action planning through settlement counselling
  • Referral to appropriate school programs, community services and government resources

 

Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)
Goals, services to families, services to schools, contact

SWIS Goals

  • Help parents and children settle into their new life in Canada
  • Give information on various settlement needs
  • Assist clients with school, work, and community resources

Services to Families

SWIS helps newcomers to Canada including permanent residents, convention refugees, and protected persons with children attending public schools at SD42 (must be non fee-paying students).

Services to Schools

SWIS meets with elementary and secondary students, staff, parents, and guardians about settlement issues. Through workshops and one-to-one meetings, SWIS finds a solution based on client needs.

SWIS Can:

  • Give information about schools and education
  • Help students and parents adjust to the school environment and understand Canadian cultures
  • Provide newcomers with important information on community resources and government services
  • Help families communicate between school, home, and community agencies

SWIS Services are available in various languages. Interpretation in your home language could be available if needed.

Contact

Office: 604.466.6555 (Ext. 4)
Cell: 778.237.4721
Email: swis@sd42.ca
Riverside Centre
20575 Thorne Avenue
Maple Ridge, V2X 9A6

Our vision
Our vision is for every individual to feel valued and for all learners to reach their potential.
Our mission
Our mission is to support all individuals in their development as successful learners, and as respectful, caring and responsible members of society.