Two-thirds of Toronto District School Board (TDSB) students come from immigrant families. Many immigrant parents have shared how difficult it is to understand and navigate the TDSB system. We — immigrant parents, caregivers, community members, and advocates — have identified persistent barriers to supporting our children within the TDSB. Many immigrant parents and caregivers are unaware of key services available within the TDSB that could help them be more engaged in their children’s education. Many report that TDSB staff are unwilling or unable to share resources with them and do not provide guidance that reflects their children’s academic or career goals. Families with children who have exceptional needs are especially vulnerable, as parents and caregivers cannot effectively advocate for their children without knowing what supports are available.

To help address these barriers, we are calling on TDSB Trustees to adopt a clear and consistent procedure across all schools: to provide every immigrant family with a comprehensive orientation package when they register their child — and every school year thereafter.

This package would:

• List school-based services (e.g., Settlement Workers in Schools, guidance counsellors, social workers)
• Share information to help families support students through key milestones (e.g., EQAO assessments, transitions)
• Explain available supports for students with exceptional needs and disabilities (e.g., Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), rights, accommodations)
• Offer information on financial assistance and invitations to parent committees (e.g., Parent Involvement Advisory Committee (PIAC), Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC))
• Include school-specific items such as calendars, trips, and after-school programs

This approach supports the TDSB’s Equity Policy (P037), which is under review this year, aligns with the GBA+ Toolkit, and strengthens the home-school connection. It should be delivered in plain language and multiple formats to meet diverse needs.

We believe this is an important first step. Let’s make sure all families feel informed, included, and empowered from day one.

We urge the TDSB to make this policy a priority.

This initiative is spearheaded by Mothers on Initiating the Vote and Equity (MOtIVAtE), a program of CultureLink Settlement and Community Services. At CultureLink, we inspire newcomers and their communities through innovative programming that promotes well-being, builds skills, and fosters community connections and belonging.

MOtIVAtE is funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE).
MOtIVAtE est financé par Femmes et Égalité des genres Canada (FEGC).