At Impact North Shore, our Settlement Workers In Schools (SWIS) program has grown significantly this year with new staff and the launch of the Family Support Program, focusing on Middle Years and Kindergarten Readiness. These additions have allowed us to reach more families and schools in the North Vancouver School District (NVSD) and West Vancouver Schools (WVSD).
Family Support Program & Expanded Outreach
Our Family Support Program helps newcomer parents navigate the Canadian education system, local resources, and positive parenting strategies. With more staff, we strengthened our school presence. At Carson Graham Secondary, we provided bi-weekly support for new student intakes and school transitions. We also attended elementary school coffee mornings, English Language Learning Nights, and Early Years Fairs, ensuring families received the information they needed.
Engaging Presentations & Community Connections
Our team delivered presentations to schools, educators, and community groups on global education differences and newcomer experiences. We participated in an AMSSA Talk panel on cultural exchange through art and co-hosted a conversation with Harrison Mooney, author of The Invisible Boy, which reached over 410 high school students.
SWIS Youth Programs
For elementary students, we offered hands-on learning experiences like Be a Scientist!, Make a Birdhouse Workshop, and Bear Paws. The Expressions! program allowed children to express their settlement experiences through art. Secondary students participated in Youth Lounge events, sports activities, Youth Equity Sessions, and the Youth Leadership Program, fostering leadership and social connections.
Looking Ahead
With expanding initiatives and strong community partnerships, we look forward to continuing our impact. Thank you to our dedicated SWIS team and partners for making this work possible!
