Community organizations: Brooks Composite High School

Integration timeline: not defined

Open access: No

Future research / gaps identified: Continue joint research and advocacy around this topic

Key findings:

1) The study emphasized the importance of social justice and antiracism in educational practices at various levels (classroom, community and policy), advocating for a reevaluation of educational systems to empower newcomer students

2) Newcomer students expressed the need for effective resources to reduce language barriers, encouragement to succeed without added pressure, and awareness campaigns around bullying in schools

3) The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and well-being was significant, calling for support for both students and adults caring for youth

4) Students reported closer ties to their religion during the pandemic, highlighting the importance of accommodating religious practices in educational settings

5) The study fostered trust between researchers and students, providing a platform for open dialogue and proactive solutions to address challenges faced by newcomer students

Key populations: newcomer high school students in Brooks

Key recommendations:

1) Develop cutting-edge ways to affirm newcomer students’ identity and optimize their experiences in schools by learning from their stories of resilience

2) Rethink education for newcomer learners by promoting dialogue, respectful exchange, and practical application of research findings in everyday educational practices3

3) Integrate newcomers’ learning experiences with academic content, community engagement, and family involvement to create a more successful outcome for newcomer students

4) Transform teacher practices and student perceptions of cultural and linguistic diversity, while also enhancing professional development expectations for educators

5) Revise policies to accommodate religious practices of newcomer students, such as prayer times, to create a more inclusive and supportive school environment

6) Implement initiatives to encourage inclusion, reduce language barriers, and raise awareness about bullying to support the well-being of newcomer students

7) Address mental health challenges among newcomer students, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, by providing comprehensive support and community-based interventions 3

8) Prioritize the well-being of both students and adults caring for youth, recognizing the significant impact of the pandemic on mental health within the education system 3

Location: Brooks, AB