Helping newcomer families navigate Alberta’s school system: Parent’s guide to CIWA’s youth programs

Written by: Calgary Immigrant Women's Association

Starting a new life in Canada comes with many challenges, especially when trying to support your children in school. The Alberta school system may feel unfamiliar at first. You may have questions about report cards, homework, or how to talk to your child’s teacher.

CIWA (Canadian Immigrant Women’s Association) is here to help. We offer programs that support both youth and parents as they adjust to the school system in Alberta. Whether you’ve been here for a few months or for a few years, our programs can help your family feel more confident and supported.

This practical, culturally sensitive guide is designed for newcomer parents. It can help you better understand how CIWA supports families in navigating the school system and accessing the help your children need.

Here are a few tips to help navigate the school journey:

1. Ask questions early. Teachers and school staff are open to hearing from you. Don’t wait until a problem arises. Introduce yourself, ask about your child’s progress, and find out how to help at home.

2. Use translation support. CIWA offers services in multiple languages. If English isn’t your strong suit, you can still get the information you need.

3. Join parenting workshops. These are great for meeting other parents, sharing concerns, and learning how the Canadian system works.

4. Attend school and CIWA events. These gatherings help you build a support network, stay informed, and feel more connected to your child’s learning journey.

Understanding the Canadian School System

Here’s a summary of the Canadian School System & Readiness Workshops delivered by agencies for newcomer families:

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• Canadian School System Overview: Introduction to how schools in Canada operate and what families can expect.
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• Helping Children Adjust: Tips for easing children’s transition into the Canadian school environment.
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• English Language Learning (ELL): Explanation of 
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• ELL classes, levels, and support for non-English-speaking students.
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• Homework Guidelines: Information on typical homework expectations and how parents can support learning at home.
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• Progress Reports: Understanding student assessments and how progress is communicated throughout the year.
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• Parent-Teacher Interviews: The importance of building relationships with teachers to support student success.
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• Staying Informed: Ways parents can stay up-to-date through newsletters, apps, and school websites.
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• School Resources: Overview of academic, emotional, and language support services available to students and families.
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A Holistic Approach to Youth Support

CIWA’s youth programs support immigrant girls, boys, and gender-diverse youth by focusing on education, empowerment, and emotional well-being. These programs go beyond academics, helping youth build confidence, social connections, cultural identity, and mental health in safe, supportive spaces.

CIWA’s Youth Programs: More Than Just Homework Help

CIWA offers several school-based and community programs for youth ages ten to 18. These programs focus on education, confidence, leadership, and wellness.

IGLOW (Immigrant Girls Leading Our Way)

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• Offered to girls and non-binary youth ages ten to 17.
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• Offered in schools, it builds confidence, leadership, and communication skills.
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• Activities include coding camp, public speaking, arts workshops, and field trips.
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• Creates a safe space to express identity, share experiences, and build peer connections.
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• Girls Culture Club (part of IGLOW) offers lunchtime or after-school discussions on topics like self-esteem, friendships, identity, and racism.
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• Sessions are led by mentors who understand newcomer experiences and cultural challenges.
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Immigrant Girls, Boys & More (IGBM)

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• Offered to youth ages 14 to 18.
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• Covers healthy relationships, boundaries, dating, and consent from a culturally sensitive perspective.
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• Provides mentorship, peer support, and career planning tools.
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• Helps youth build confidence, ask questions, and advocate for themselves.
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Youth Mentorship Program (Pathways to Success)

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• Pairs newcomer girls with trained women mentors.
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• Mentors help youth plan their education, careers, and build self-confidence.
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• Lasts up to a year and includes regular check-ins and workshops.
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Change Leaders Program

For youth who are ready to go beyond participation and step into leadership.

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• For immigrant and refugee youth ready to take on leadership roles.
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• Trains participants to design and lead community projects on issues like racism, mental health, gender-based violence, and newcomer isolation.
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• Builds skills in public speaking, project planning, facilitation, and teamwork.
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• Youth present their work at forums and events, gaining visibility and confidence as changemakers.
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• Empowers youth to not just adjust to life in Canada, but to actively shape their communities.
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Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway & Community Events

CIWA hosts year-round community events that connect families, youth, and service providers.

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• A highlight is the Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway, held each summer.
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• Provides free school supplies including 
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• backpacks, notebooks, pens, calculators, and lunch kits to hundreds of children from immigrant and refugee families.
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• Helps ease financial pressure for parents, especially during the resettlement period.
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• Supports children in starting the school year prepared and confident.
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Bridging Cultural Gaps

Navigating Alberta’s school system can be challenging for newcomer parents.

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• CIWA offers resources and workshops to help parents understand school expectations and support their children.
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• The Cross-Cultural Parenting Program (CCPP) is a key support, helping parents adapt to Canadian parenting while honoring their cultural values.
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• Delivered in multiple languages through group discussions and interactive sessions.
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• Parents learn to manage intergenerational conflict, improve communication, and build confidence in working with schools.
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Getting Started

Ready to sign up? CIWA makes it simple. Most school-based programs are free and can be accessed through CIWA’s website.

Call CIWA at 403-263-4414, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or visit ciwa-online.com for current offerings. If you're unsure what your child might enjoy or benefit from most, a CIWA staff member will be happy to walk you through your options.

See our related articles:

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• Learning for Your Child's Future
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• Five Steps to Choosing the Perfect School 
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• High school at home: options in Alberta
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