Surrey Schools Welcome Centre to host newcomer networking nights

Surrey Schools will again hold Newcomer Networking Nights throughout September and October to help immigrants, refugees and new families navigate school life in Surrey and White Rock. The multilingual sessions are intended for families new to Surrey and Canada and will cover district services, staff assistance, school routines and norms, and supports available through the Welcome Centre.

Topics include settling into life in Canada, digital literacy and online safety, personal hygiene and self-care, friendships and social connections, volunteering and employment opportunities. English language learner teachers will collaborate on each event, which will be delivered by multilingual settlement workers in schools and multicultural workers from the district. Parents may seek more specific information during a question-and-answer period, and families and students can connect with others in their communities.

The sessions are scheduled for Queen Elizabeth Secondary, 9457 King George Blvd., on Wednesday, Sept. 16; Lord Tweedsmuir Secondary, 6151 180 St., on Wednesday, Sept. 23; Frank Hurt Secondary, 13940 77 Ave., on Wednesday, Oct. 7; Guildford Park Secondary, 10707 146 St., on Wednesday, Oct. 14; Tamanawis Secondary, 12600 66 Ave., on Wednesday, Oct. 21; and Grandview Heights Secondary, 16987 25 Ave., on Wednesday, Oct. 28.

All families with children in early learning, elementary or secondary programs may attend any session, as the same information will be presented each night. Registration and networking run from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., followed by the presentation and Q&A from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. More information is available from the Welcome Centre at SWIS-Office@surreyschools.ca or 604-543-3060.