**Please review the disclaimer at the end of this document before reading or using this guide.

Registering your child for school is an essential step for new immigrants settling in Canada. The process ensures that your child can begin their education in a new country smoothly and without delay. This guide provides information to help you navigate the school registration process in Canada.

Step 1: Understand the Education System

Before starting the registration process, it’s important to understand the structure of the Canadian education system:

• Early Childhood Education: Preschool (ages 3-5) and Kindergarten (ages 4-5).
• Primary Education: Elementary school (Grades 1-6 or 1-8, depending on the province).
• Secondary Education: Middle school/junior high (Grades 7-9) and high school (Grades 9-12 or 10-12).

Step 2: Determine Your School District

1. Identify Your Local School Board: Each region is governed by a school board that oversees public education in its area. Your address determines the school district and the specific schools your child can attend.
2. School Board Websites: Visit your local school board’s website for specific information about the schools in your district. Some major school boards include:
   • Toronto District School Board (TDSB)
   • Vancouver School Board (VSB)
   • Calgary Board of Education (CBE)
   • Edmonton Public Schools (EPSB)

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

To register your child for school, you will need several documents. Ensure all documents are original or certified copies:

1. Proof of Identity:
   • Birth certificate
   • Passport
   • Permanent Resident Card
2. Proof of Address:
   • Lease agreement or property tax bill
   • Utility bill (electricity, water, gas)
3. Proof of Legal Status in Canada:
   • Permanent Resident Card
   • Work or study permit
   • Refugee status documents
4. Immunization Records:
   • Up-to-date vaccination records as required by provincial health regulations.
5. Previous School Records:
   • Report cards or transcripts from previous schools (if applicable).

Step 4: Visit the School or School Board Office

1. School Visit:
   • Some schools allow direct registration. Call ahead to confirm if you need an appointment.
2. School Board Office:
   • If direct registration at the school is not possible, visit the school board office for assistance with registration.

Step 5: Complete Registration Forms

During your visit, you will be required to complete various registration forms. These forms typically request:

• Personal information (name, date of birth, etc.)
• Parent or guardian contact details
• Emergency contact information
• Health and medical information
• Language spoken at home

Step 6: Assessment for Language Support

If English or French is not your child’s first language, they may need to be assessed for language support services:

1. Language Assessment: The school may arrange an English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) assessment to determine the level of support needed.
2. Placement in Language Programs: Based on the assessment, your child may be placed in ESL or FSL programs to help them improve their language skills.

Step 7: Attend Orientation

Many schools offer orientation sessions for new students and their families:

1. School Tour: Familiarize yourself with the school environment, facilities, and staff.
2. Meet Teachers: Meet your child’s teachers and discuss any concerns or special needs.
3. Understand School Policies: Learn about the school’s policies on attendance, discipline, and academic expectations.

Step 8: Prepare Your Child for School

1. School Supplies: Purchase the necessary school supplies as recommended by the school.
2. Uniforms: If the school requires uniforms, obtain the appropriate attire.
3. Discuss Expectations: Talk to your child about what to expect at their new school to help ease any anxieties.

Step 9: Stay Involved

1. Parent-Teacher Communication: Maintain regular communication with your child’s teachers to monitor their progress.
2. Participate in School Activities: Get involved in school events, parent-teacher associations (PTAs), and volunteer opportunities.

Registering your child for school in Canada involves several steps, from understanding the local education system to gathering necessary documents and completing registration forms. By following this guide and being proactive, new immigrants can ensure a smooth transition for their children into the Canadian school system. Welcome to Canada, and best wishes for a successful educational journey for your family!

**DISCLAIMER: This document was prepared based on information gathered from various online sources. While our aim is to provide accurate and helpful information to newcomers in Canada, Active Action cannot be held responsible for any actions, outcomes, or situations that may arise from the use of this document. We strongly recommend that you verify any details with official sources or relevant authorities if you have any doubts or uncertainties about any information provided in this document. If you have any specific questions about the information in this document, or if you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please inform us immediately through the contact form. We will respond to you as soon as possible and/or update the information as necessary.