Challenges faced by newcomers in Calgary schools

In the heart of Calgary’s bustling educational system lies a challenge often overlooked: the cultural chasm between newcomer families and the expectations of Western schools. Aline Muhongayire’s experience sheds light on this issue, as her son’s behavior in school left her bewildered, sparking questions about discipline and educational norms.

Muhongayire, a Rwandan-Canadian mother, found herself puzzled by her son’s behavior in school. Despite seemingly minor issues like difficulty focusing and restlessness, she was alarmed by the barrage of communication from teachers. This prompted her to question the disciplinary approach and educational expectations within Calgary’s schools.

Calgary’s schools are grappling with an influx of newcomers, necessitating adjustments in language and settlement programs. However, for these families, the challenge extends beyond linguistic barriers; it encompasses understanding the nuances of a Western educational system vastly different from their homeland norms.

The disparity between disciplinary approaches in Rwandan classrooms, characterized by strict discipline enforced by teachers, and the comparatively lenient atmosphere in Calgary schools, perplexes immigrant families like Muhongayire’s. The absence of rigorous enforcement and the unfamiliarity with Western educational customs compound the dilemma for both parents and students.

Young adults from East African communities shared their experiences, reflecting on the dissonance between their upbringing and Western educational paradigms. They recount feeling stranded between parental expectations favoring deference to teachers and the reality of having to navigate academic challenges independently.

Organizations like the Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth play a pivotal role in bridging this cultural chasm. Offering support in multiple languages, they aid newcomers in understanding school dynamics, facilitating communication between parents and educators, and empowering students to thrive despite the cultural dissonance.

Despite the initial struggles, there’s a silver lining. Immigrant children, molded by early challenges, often exhibit remarkable resilience, a trait that paves the way for future success. As exemplified by Frank Cattoni’s own journey from immigrant to CEO, the resilience ingrained in these youth fosters enduring triumphs.

In the tapestry of Calgary’s diverse educational landscape, the narrative of cultural adaptation and resilience emerges as a compelling thread. By acknowledging and addressing the challenges faced by newcomer families, Calgary’s educational institutions can pave the way for inclusive learning environments where every student can flourish, regardless of their cultural background.