The school system is still trying to navigate the arrival of newcomer Ukrainians.

While initiatives have been put in place, some are still reporting a lack of supports for those who do not speak fluent English.

The Department of Education says that they have provided additional funding to the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District to go towards hiring more English as an additional language supports, including teachers, an educational psychologist and a guidance counsellor. Funding for bussing to accommodate newcomers has also been allocated.

Meanwhile, the NLESD says at the classroom level, there is no “one size fits all” approach as every student is unique. Upon arrival, the refugees are first entered into a communal classroom environment with itinerant teachers for language development and orientation. There have been 47 itinerate teachers assigned to support over 400 Ukrainian students, and over 1,200 newcomer students across the province.

The school district says some teachers are using an online translation program to communicate with students, picture dictionaries have been supplied when required, all teachers have been provided with a guide of practical resources as well as a computer capable of translation.

They say that they recognize there are still some challenges, but they are working with students and families and have been getting positive feedback on their quick response and level of support.