The OCSB International Student Program’s focus during the 2021-2022 school year was to build community by bringing international students together to develop friendships and support each other. Our students had fun getting to know one another through virtual and in-person gatherings.
Highlights were:
- A camping trip.
- A virtual trivia night.
- Movie theatre outings.
- An Ottawa RedBlacks football game.
- Pizza parties.
- Horseback riding.
- A Canadian winter adventure.
- A visit to the trampoline park.
- A trip to Montreal.
We welcomed students from 45 countries this school year, creating a great sense of diversity among all our students and providing a wonderful cultural exchange. Nurturing friendships between our domestic and international students brings a global perspective to our schools. Many of our international students remarked, “these will be friends I have for life!”
This connection extended beyond the classroom as international students were welcomed and supported by their host families. OCSB staff member Sue Zientek, her husband and her daughter decided to host an international student, Klara, for the first time during the 2021-2022 school year. It was a wonderful experience for Sue’s family. “What we enjoyed the most was how easily Klara became part of our family. She immediately acclimatized into our life, and she embraced our family. I recommend hosting an international student for the rich cultural experiences and different perspectives the students bring to your family.” said Sue.