Empowerment Squared’s Homework Circle program supports newcomer youth from grades 1 to 12 and their families in building self confidence and school readiness for positive engagement in the education system. In Ontario, the school system is the first and most significant point of contact for newcomer youth. As an age appropriate education system where newcomer youth are placed in grades based on their age rather than academic ability, the classroom is often an intimidating environment since many newcomers have had no access to school as a result of living in refugee camps, fleeing war torn countries, or immigrating from impoverished communities. As a result, youth from newcomer, marginalized, immigrant, and refugee communities are more likely to drop out of school or struggle with academics and social, emotional, and mental trauma.

Participants are required to share their report cards for reporting purposes and as evidence to show how to best support the participants while at Homework Circle. Priority registration will be given to participants who are getting C’s and D’s, are ESL or ELL, or who have an IEP for learning in mainstream education. Admittance to the program is done on a case by case basis.

On the days of the program, participants must come prepared with their homework and assignments. Empowerment Squared aims to prepare participants for post secondary education and/or employment therefore, regular, punctual attendance for participants is required.

All Empowerment Squared programs are free for all participants.

Registration for the Homework Circle program is open from October 6-13, 2023. Click below to sign up!