Windsor-Essex is home to many newcomers to Canada and the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board is happy to have them in our classrooms. Students receiving English as a Second Language (ESL) support in our elementary schools will continue to receive support as they transition to high school.
Currently ESL programming is available at Catholic Central High School, Cardinal Carter Secondary School and Assumption High School. Beginning September 2024, ESL programming will also be offered at F.J. Brennan High School.
In High School, ESL students:
- Learn English at the same time as learning the Ontario High School Curriculum
- Earn credits towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- Have access to support and mainstream classes
- Develop confidence to use their own voice to express their ideas and opinions
- Have opportunities to choose pathways for their future goals
Transition Meeting
Students receiving ESL support in elementary will meet with their teachers, parents/caregivers and guidance counsellors to determine the best options available to support their learning needs in High School. Together they will discuss the student’s future goals and aspirations along with the programs offered at their local high school and/or nearby school sites. Interpreters and *SWIS workers can be provided to help parents and guardians fully understand and participate in these meetings.
SWIS Workers
Settlement Workers In Schools (SWIS) help connect newcomer students and families to community services and resources. SWIS offer group sessions, assist school staff, and respond to settlement issues that some newcomers may experience.
ESL/ELD Programming
Depending on your child’s language development, the following types of programs may be recommended in high school:
ESL (English as a Second Language) - students who have a first language other than English and have received formal educational instruction
ELD (English Language Development) - students who have a first language other than English and who have gaps in education or little formal educational instruction.
The following chart demonstrates the ESL and ELD pathways in high school and how they coincide with the Ontario Curriculum and the OSSD requirements:
Adjusting to a new country, culture and language is difficult. But at the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board, you are never alone on this journey. We’re with you all the way!
For more information please contact our Supervisor of Newcomer Services Bana Musharbash at (519) 253-2481 ext. 1503