Public education is organized by provinces and territories and delivered through local school boards, districts or service centres. Registration details differ, but you can prepare the same core information.
Find the local authority
Search the official education ministry website for your province or territory, then use its school-board or district finder. The closest school is not always the assigned school, and language, faith-based or specialized programs may have different boundaries.
Gather what you have
The school may ask for proof of the child’s age, identity, immigration status and address, plus previous school records and vaccination information. Do not delay contacting the board because one record is missing. Ask what alternative proof can be accepted.
Bring translated records if available, but check whether certified translation is required before paying for it.
Tell the school what helps your child
Share languages spoken, previous grade level, interrupted schooling, health or accessibility needs, and learning supports that worked before. Ask about:
- language assessment and English or French language support
- settlement workers in schools
- transportation and meal programs
- special education or accessibility assessment
- counselling and newcomer-youth programs
- technology and school-supply expectations
Help without making the child the interpreter
Ask the school for an interpreter for important meetings. Children may speak English or French sooner than their parents, but they should not carry responsibility for translating confidential, medical, legal or disciplinary information.
Keep a school folder
Save registration forms, report cards, learning plans, attendance records and important emails. Write down the name of the person responsible for the next step. If you disagree with a decision, ask for the school board’s review or complaint process in writing.