International Student Program Homestay Guide

Enjoy the journey of cultural learning

isp.lrsd.net CONTENTS

Welcome...... 3 Health Insurance Guide...... 10 International Student Program Health...... 11 Homestay Guidelines...... 3 What to Do and How to Claim...... 11 Information Changes...... 3 Helpful Website Links and Contact Numbers...... 4 Living in ...... 12 Contact Information, Location and Map...... 5 Events and Permission Forms...... 16 Activities and Things to do in ...... 6 Who Signs What?...... 17 Fun Family Activities...... 7

Homestay Program...... 18 Arriving in Canada...... 8 What is Expected from the Homestay Family...... 20 Airport Arrival...... 8 Homestay Food Do’s and Don’ts...... 23 Keeping Your Student Safe...... 8 Host Family and Student Expectations...... 26 Communication Protocol...... 9 Homestay Family Do’s and Don’ts...... 29 Homestay Travel...... 32

Going Home – End of Program Checklist...... 36

Homestay Family Agreement...... 38

FAQ...... 40

Conclusion...... 41

2 WELCOME TO THE

INTERNATIONAL Winnipeg STUDENT PROGRAM HOMESTAY

GUIDELINES International Students will also be given further information during orientation Welcome to the Louis Riel School Division’s (LRSD) about specific topics once they arrive. This information International Student Program (ISP)! This information will assist you in dealing with certain topics that are too has been designed to explain our Homestay Program and lengthy to include in this guide. International Students outline some rules and expectations the International are encouraged to discuss any of these topics with their Student Program has for its participants. Homestay Family or ISP staff if you require further Please note that the rules and expectations that follow clarification. do not cover all situations. They do, however, provide sufficient information for the International Students to make good decisions. Certain rules and expectations Information Changes are very precise and imperative, while others call for judgment on the part of the International Students and This booklet is intended as a guideline only. Please their Homestay parents. consult with the LRSD ISP staff for additional information. Homestay parents, like biological parents, can’t always rely on rigid rules, but often they must take risks and make decisions based on their understanding of the situation and the maturity of their International Student. All of this will develop and evolve during the semester/ year if the International Student and the Homestay Family members respect and communicate with one another.

Our International Student Program has established certain rules that protect the International Student, the Homestay Family and the International Student Program. Please read this booklet carefully to ensure you understand the basic rules and expectations of our Program.

3 Citizenship and Immigration Canada – Students can HELPFUL WEBSITE apply for a study permit online and organize all of their application information. This needs to be completed LINKS AND CONTACT outside of Canada and before a student comes to NUMBERS Canada. www.cic.gc.ca/english/e-services/index.asp Some of these links are found in other sections of this guide. They are Study Permit Extension Application: Students can also apply online to extend their study permits. If they wish included here for quick access. to extend their permit, they should apply before their current permit expires. School websites have helpful information including contact numbers, addresses with maps and school www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/ calendars. School websites can be found through the extend-student.asp Louis Riel School Division website at: www.lrsd.net/school/community-of-schools/Pages/ default.aspx Living in Manitoba – A Government of Manitoba website where students and their parents can go to find information about living in Manitoba. It includes useful Louis Riel School Division International Student information on climate, education and Canadian culture. Program website: www.immigratemanitoba.com isp.lrsd.net

City of Winnipeg website – A municipal government Province of Manitoba International Education website providing information about events, places to information: visit and other items of interest for people living in or visiting Winnipeg. www.gov.mb.ca/ie/index.html www.winnipeg.ca/interhom

Guard.me - All international students in the program are covered under a mandatory Guard.me health insurance Winnipeg Transit – Find out about bus passes, including plan. Students do not need to purchase additional travel costs and where to purchase them, bus schedules and insurance. Please read the coverage and claims details at: search bus routes. www.guard.me www.winnipegtransit.com

Manitoba Health – In addition to Guard.me insurance, Winnipeg Airport – Check arrival and departure students studying for longer than 6 months will receive a information, travel tips and security information. wallet-sized Manitoba Health card. Manitoba Health will www.waa.ca cover students for the same services Manitoba residents receive. For details about Manitoba Health coverage, visit: http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/mhsip/#5

4 City of Winnipeg 311 - Information Service www.winnipeg.ca/interhom

Winnipeg Weather – The Government of Canada website for current weather, forecasts and historical weather information. weather.gc.ca

Tourism Winnipeg – Find out about things to do in Winnipeg, including places to eat, events to watch, activities to enjoy and more. www.tourismwinnipeg.com

Travel Manitoba – Explore Manitoba, find out about the places to visit, cultural events and activities happening in the Province. www.travelmanitoba.com/things.to.do

Restaurant Guide – Winnipeg’s most popular and unique dining experiences. www.visitwinnipegnow.com/where-to-eat PHONE NUMBERS

Louis Riel School Division, International Student Program Main Line – 1.204.257.7827 Working hours (8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) Afterhours and emergency, please see ISP contact info (pg 6)

Health Links is a 24-hour, 7-days a week telephone information service available in Manitoba. Whether a student has a small medical question or a more urgent need, they should first call Health Links at: 1.204.788.8200

City of Winnipeg general information – 311 Emergencies (police, ambulance, fire) – 911

LOCATION & MAP 900 St. Mary’s Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2M 3R3 Canada

International Education Department Louis Riel School Division Board Office Phone 1.204.257.7827 Fax 1.204.237.7179 Open Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 5 ACTIVITIES AND THINGS TO DO IN WINNIPEG

Homestay families are not expected to be tour guides, but international students do appreciate and benefit from participating in family activities. Families are asked to take part in at least one planned activity per month, if possible. Winnipeg offers many activities that are popular with international students. Information about most of the following events and activities can be found online at travelmanitoba.com, http://tourismwinnipeg.com or www.winnipeg.ca/ interhom. The following list is a sample of the events and activities; there are many others as well. Winnipeg’s Top Festivals Parks, Museums and and Special Events Historical Sites Fall Events (September – October) • Lower • Canada Goose migration • Mennonite Heritage Museum • Manitoba Culture Days • National Historic Site • Manitoba Dragon Boat Festival • Musée de Saint-Boniface Museum • Corn Maze • Canadian Museum for Human Rights • The Manitoba Museum (Science Gallery and Winter Events (November – February) Planetarium) • Canad Inns Winter Wonderland • Manitoba Children’s Museum • Santa Claus Parade • Manitoba Electrical Museum • Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra New Music Festival • Western Canada Aviation Museum • Festival du Voyageur • Winnipeg Railway Museum • Springhill Winter Park • The Forks Historical Site • Harbour View Recreation Complex • Spring Events (March – May) • Fort Whyte Alive • March 21st Human Rights Film Festival • • Dance Manitoba: Provincial Dance Festival • and Zoo • Teddy Bear’s Picnic • Fun Mountain • Winnipeg International Airshow • St. Vital Park and Duck Pond

Summer Events (June – August) • Provencher Park • Winnipeg International Children’s Festival • Harbourview Park • Winnipeg International Jazz Festival • La Barriere Park • Red River Exhibition • Crescent Drive Park • Winnipeg Folk Festival • (Downtown) • Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival • Birds Hill Park • Ballet in the Park • Manitoba beaches • Folklorama • Manito Ahbee Festival

6 Arts and Culture Sports and the Great Outdoors • The Winnipeg Art Gallery • Football (Winnipeg Blue Bombers) • Gallery 1C03 (University of Winnipeg) • Baseball (Winnipeg Goldeyes) • Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art • Hockey (Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose) • Art galleries in the • Ringette • Manitoba Theatre for Young People (MTYP) • Soccer • Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre (MTC) • Miniature golf • Rainbow Stage • Golfing • The Forks (performances and entertainment) • Bowling • Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet • Skating on the Red River • The Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra • Curling • Manitoba Opera • Skiing/Snowboarding • Outdoor concerts • Cross-country skiing • Tobogganing/Sledding Great Shopping • Snowshoeing • St. Vital Shopping Centre • Rollerblading • Shopping Centre • Swimming • Shopping Centre • Mountain biking • Winnipeg Square • Fishing and Ice Fishing • Kenaston Common • Hiking • Exchange District • Skateboarding • Chinatown It is important for families to share information about • Canadian holidays and special occasions. Homestay • Corydon Avenue families may want to talk to international students • Academy Road about any of these dates that are special to the family. • Old St. Boniface Homestay families also can let students know which • The Forks Market dates are actual holidays and which are simply special • St. Norbert Farmer’s Market days when schools still will be open. • Value Village and other nearly-new stores (ideal for low-cost winter clothes)

FUN FAMILY ACTIVITIES

• Have a BBQ or picnic in the park • Look at old family photos and take new photos together • Have a bonfire and roast marshmallows • Watch videos or movies and discuss them afterwards • Take a Paddlewheel Queen or Princess • Play family board games, card games, etc. River Boat Cruise • Play interactive games together: Nintendo Wii, • Build a snowman (fun at any age!) karaoke, etc. • Cook and bake food from the students’ home • Invite the student’s friends over for a special occasion country together (birthday, etc.) • Take the family pet for a walk • Have the student teach the homestay family something • Take a new class together from their country (phrases, customs, etc.)

7 AIRPORT ARRIVAL

Welcoming students at the airport is an important part many students meeting new families that day. Decorating of the experience that you will have together. a welcome sign can get the whole family involved and part of the excitement of the student’s arrival. Students truly appreciate this and will remember this memory as a first of many memories of their Canadian A member of the ISP team will be at the airport to make experience. sure that you connect with your student. After luggage is collected and a photo taken of your first moments It is expected that you will make arrangements to be together, you will be able to take them home with you to at the airport to welcome them with as many family begin to get them settled into your family. Many students members as possible. If you are unable to be at the are very tired after a long journey to Canada and may airport, please make arrangements with an extended need a day or two to rest and become acclimatized to family member, trusted friend or other homestay family the new time zones. to pick up your student and notify the ISP department of your situation. Students will be notified of the date when they need to be at school. School supplies can be purchased after It is nice to have a sign with their name on it so that they their initial meeting with the school guidance teacher and can easily identify you when they arrive. There may be their course timetable has been made.

KEEPING YOUR STUDENT SAFE: Please remind your student to: • Always wear a helmet when riding a bike • Always wear a seatbelt in a car • Never, ever, get into a car with a driver who has consumed alcohol or taken recreational drugs • Carry only a copy of their passport with them as ID - leave their original in a safe place in your home • Carry only a small amount of cash with them • Always let you know where they are going, who they will be with, a number where you can reach them and what time they will be home • Know what to do in an emergency such as a fire in your home • Call 911 in an emergency for police, ambulance or the fire department

8 COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL

Good communication is a key element in a successful • If there is an issue that you need help addressing homestay experience – for both the family and the with your student, we can help them understand your student. concerns in a gentle way as part of their education about living in Canada. When possible, we will meet As opposed to asking a student if they understand, and with small groups and address similar issues with they answer ‘yes’ if they understand or not, it might be several students at the same time. For example, if we better to have them tell you what they understand of gather 5 or 6 students and ask them all if they help the what you said. Using internet translator websites and family with chores in the home, it can be discussed as phone apps are an excellent way to bridge some of a group and as a learning time instead of meeting with these times. your student to say that you are not happy that they The students should be able to come to you as they are not doing any chores to help out. would a mother/father or aunt/uncle for advice and guidance in any situation. If you would like assistance Emergencies with any difficult conversations (awkward topics, • ISP should be contacted immediately if there is an translating assistance, etc.) feel free to contact the ISP emergency. If the emergency requires a 911 call, that department for someone to help you. call should be made first and an ISP staff member should be the next call. ISP staff can be reached at the School concerns office during the day or on their cell phones after hours. • Should be directed to an ISP staff member.

Homestay concerns Remember... ISP staff • We strongly encourage students to communicate are available to help with their homestay families first. Sometimes, limited language skills make this a longer process but we students and families appreciate your patience with this as the student communicate when learns about life in Canada. questions arise. • If an issue continues, please contact an ISP staff member. • An ISP staff member will visit the high schools on a weekly basis and be available to international students for their concerns. If a homestay concern is shared, that information will also be shared with you with the hopes of addressing the concern. Sometimes students from other countries find it difficult to tell the family directly what is bothering them but are okay with it being shared through another channel.

9 HEALTH INSURANCE

All international students are very well covered by a Visit our website at isp.lrsd.net to view a list of clinics mandatory Guard.me health insurance plan. The students that have a direct billing relationship with Guard.me so are completely covered from the time they leave their the student would not have to pay for a visit. home country until when they return. If they do have to pay (if they visit a clinic that does not Students studying for more than 6 months will get direct bill), they can apply for reimbursement and the Manitoba Health coverage at no cost in addition to instructions are online at guard.me. mandatory top-up Guard.me insurance. ISP staff must be notified of any serious accident, The ISP department arranges proper coverage for all hospitalization or emergency health concern. ISP staff international students. will inform the student’s biological parents as soon as possible. We recommend that the homestay family makes a copy of the student’s medical health insurance information If the student is injured in an accident, the homestay and keep it in a safe place in case of emergency. family or student should NOT sign any form that releases anyone from responsibility for the accident. The students should have this information with them at all times so that it is available to them when they need it. The names of people should be recorded along with a police incident number (if applicable) and this information Please review the insurance policy with your student in must be shared with ISP staff immediately. advance to help them understand the plan. Health Links is a 24-hour, 7 days a week telephone Students, parents and homestay families can contact information service available in Manitoba. Guard.me at 1-888-756-8428 (toll free) with any questions. Whether a student has a medical question or concern or a more urgent need, it may be helpful to first call Health Students do not have to see your regular family doctor – Links at 204-788-8200. the walk in clinics are fine. If there is a medical emergency, please call 911 first then If a student requires medical attention – illness or injury – notify ISP staff. please take them to a walk in clinic or emergency room. The Guard.me policy is available on the guard.me/louisriel website and is translated into many languages.

24/7 STUDENT COUNSELLING AVAILABLE

There may be times when your student feels the need to talk to and you are concerned about them, please let the ISP with someone but is not able to discuss matters with anyone. staff know.

The GuardMe international student health insurance has a We will be covering this in our student orientations and asking free & confidential counselling available to our international that they all bookmark this site, download the app or save the students. This service has trained specialists available 24/7 toll free phone number in case they ever need to use it. online and available by phone to talk with students – in their 1.844.451.9700 | keepmeSAFE.org own language – to help them with their feelings. My ISP App available on the App Store – search Guard. If you feel that your student may need someone to talk me or keepmeSAFE.org

10 MANITOBA HEALTH International students studying for more than 6 months will be covered by Manitoba Health. Manitoba Health directly pays for medical care required for the student including vists for a health care provider, surgery and diagnostic tests. If an ISP student is hospitalized, the province will also cover: • Accommodations and meals at the standard level • Costs associated with surgery, including anesthesia • Nursing services and surgical supplies • Diagnostics and lab tests • Occupational, speech and physiotherapy • Medications given in the hospital • Dietary counseling WHAT TO DO AND HOW TO CLAIM – STEP BY STEP

International students, parents and homestay families should read the Guard.me policy carefully for full 1 details about benefits, limitations and exclusions. Not all medical costs are qualified for repayment.

If students become ill or injured, they should ask their homestay family to take them to the nearest walk-in 2 clinic or a hospital. The student must show photo identification PLUS their medical insurance card to be seen by a doctor. The student must bring a Guard.me claim form to the visit. This form will need to be signed by the medical provider.

Most medical facilities will require immediate payment for the visit if you do not have a Manitoba health card. 3 Any costs for services must be paid by the international student. Students must then submit a claim to Guard. me directly to be repaid.

Students and homestay families must always be sure to tell ISP staff of any illness, serious injury or accident. 4 Students can contact ISP staff with questions about policy coverage and submitting claims.

Note: There are some walk-in clinics in Winnipeg that will accept the Guard.me medical card directly. When students go to these clinics for services, eligible fees will be covered by the insurance policy immediately.

A list of walk-in clinics in our division can be found by visiting our website isp.lrsd.net. Click the “Walk-in Clinics” link on our home page for locations near you. The locations that accept the Guard.me medical card directly will be specified.

11 Students may be removed from the program and be sent LIVING IN CANADA home immediately if they: • Possess, sell or use any illicit drug or drug Breaking the Law paraphernalia Any international student who breaks the law may be • Are involved with people using drugs removed from the program and may be sent home • Possess or consume alcohol immediately. • Enter a bar,lounge or night club

If the police are involved, they may make that decision Please remind all students in the ISP program that they and immigration will be notified. signed an agreement not to consume any alcohol or drugs while in our program.

Weapons The Canadian Criminal Code and LRSD policy state Smoking that having a weapon or using an object as a weapon Some students may come from countries where smoking is unacceptable. This includes guns, knives, air guns, is acceptable. paintballs, slingshots, bow & arrow, etc. In Canada, it is illegal for minors (under 18 years of age) Students who break this rule will be suspended and their to buy cigarettes, cigars or other tobacco products. biological parents will be notified by the ISP department. Smoking is not permitted in any LRSD building, school, or In some cases, the police may be involved with the public buildings in Manitoba. By extension, your home is situation. included in this.

International students who break this rule will be Students are NOT allowed to smoke in a homestay home. removed from the program and sent home immediately. If they break this rule, please call ISP staff. The student will be disciplined and may have to find their own living arrangements. Alcohol, Illicit Drugs and Other Controlled Substances Appropriate Clothing It is unacceptable for students to use, possess, sell, purchase or be under the influence of alcohol or illicit Students will have money to purchase their own clothing drugs or have drug paraphernalia at any time while a but they may need your advice on where to shop, what is student of LRSD. acceptable, and what is appropriate for weather conditions. Students are not allowed to get any tattoos or body piercings while enrolled in the program.

HELPING YOUR STUDENT COPE WITH HOMESICKNESS

• Talk to your student and let them share their feelings with you • Be sympathetic • Try to engage the in activities and keep them busy • Make sure they are eating well and getting proper rest • Encourage your student to reduce the number of calls home to once or twice a week, and suggest that weekends are best. • Contact the ISP staff if you feel worried that things are not getting better 12 Telephone/Cellphone Use Homestay families may limit the amount of time students spend on the computer, particularly if they are It is allowed and reasonable for you to set guidelines and spending a lot of time online. Allowing students too much limits on telephone use and length of calls. time on the computer can interfere with their balance of These rules should apply to the house phone, personal cell rest, study time and other daily activities. phones, or an Internet phone service/program like Skype. The homestay family has the right, and are advised Unless there is an emergency, phone calls must not to, ask that students leave their cell phones and be made or received before 10:00 a.m. and must be laptops out of their bedrooms overnight. Their completed by 10:00 p.m. request is in the student’s best interest to allow for a better sleep. For example, the kitchen is a popular Students who make long distance calls are responsible location for an overnight ‘docking station’ area. to pay for those calls. Students are encouraged to make collect calls, use a free online phone/video chat program Students are not allowed to use the homestay family’s such as Skype, or use a phone card or a personal mobile Internet connection to download anything from the phone to make long distance calls. Internet (including music, movies and other files).

Many students use phone cards to manage their International students are asked to consider the amount telephone charges, but there may be available phone of time they spend online with friends and family back plans that provide good rates for students. Homestay home. Students should contact family and friends only once families are asked to consider what method is best for or twice a week, preferably on weekends. Students are both the student and the homestay family. encouraged to interact with their homestay families, speak English as much as possible and focus on being in Canada. If students wish to buy a mobile phone while in Canada, there are pay-as-you-go and prepaid student plans available. Homestay families should not sign any High-Risk Activities contracts on the student’s behalf as all costs related to phone use are the student’s responsibility. There are many things to do and see in Canada and as you are trying to show your student a good time while they are here, please keep in mind that some activities that we Computer Use are comfortable with are considered ‘high-risk activities’. The Internet (including email and social networking For example, you may go to the lake every year and take sites such as Facebook) is a fast and easy way for many your children boating/water skiing/tubing but when it is students to communicate with their friends and families an international student, we are required to have their back home. It allows students to communicate regularly biological parents sign a permission form for such activities. without the extra cost of long distance phone calls. We realize that you will do your utmost to ensure their Internet use should be discussed with the homestay family. safety but before you make plans to take them on an Some international students may have their own personal outing that may include an activity of high risk, please laptops and will only need an Internet connection. Personal consult with an ISP staff member and have the forms laptops must only be used in a public area of the home. filled out & signed before you go. If you are not sure if an Students should not be allowed to keep their laptop in activity is considered high risk or not, please ask. their bedroom. Homestay families should set this rule If a facility requires a waiver signed before a person can as soon as the student arrives to prevent extended participate in an activity such as Skyzone Trampoline computer use. Park, this would be an indication that the activity is high- Students who will be using the homestay family’s risk. Biological parents must be the ones that sign those computer will be expected to share time with other waivers and they are usually available online. family members. Homestay families should outline their The following page has a sample form and it is located guidelines about the amount of time and type of use on the isp.lrsd.net website under Resources for that they will allow. Students will be expected to respect Homestay Families. limits on computer use. 13 SAMPLE FORM

INFORMED CONSENT AND WAIVER FORM FOR HIGH-RISK ACTIVITIES

Student Name: ______Biological Parent Name: ______

I, the undersigned, parent of ______, hereby acknowledge that certain risks of injury are inherent to participation in high-risk to medium risk activities. These types of injuries may be minor or serious and may result from my child’s own actions or the actions or inactions of others, or a combination of both.

I understand that certain activities require a minimum level of fitness and health (physical, mental and emotional) and that each person has a different capacity for participating in these activities.

I hereby declare that our child is physically fit to participate and understand that the choice to participate brings with it the assumption of those risks and results which are part of these activities.

I understand and acknowledge that despite the precautions taken by the student and their homestay family, there are potential risks associated with engaging in high-risk activities, including risks of physical injury, accident, sickness, death, delay, inconvenience or damage to personal property as a result of my child’s participation in the activity.

I authorize my child to participate in the following activities by checking off the selected activities. Some of the associated risks arise from and include, but are not limited to, the activities listed below:

□ Encountering wildlife; □ Travel by snowmobile; □ Water skiing/tubing □ Travel by motorized boat or small self-propelled watercraft □ Ice sport events (includes but is not limited to skating, curling, hockey) □ Downhill skiing □ Other: ______

I agree that the Louis Riel School Division and its homestay families and employees shall not be liable for any injury to my child or loss or damage to personal property arising from, or in any way resulting from, my child’s participation in these activities.

In adherence with the ISP Policy, I understand that my child is forbidden from operating motorized vehicles.

I declare having read and understood the above INFORMED CONSENT AND WAIVER AGREEMENT in its entirety and give consent for our child to participate acknowledging all of the foregoing.

______

(Signature of Parent) (Date)

14 Volunteering and Working: Driver’s Licences and Driving International Students Cannot International students in the Louis Riel School Division Hold A Paying Job are not allowed to own, rent or drive any type of motor vehicle regardless of their existing license or training The Federal Government of Canada does not allow from their home country. international students to work, as clearly outlined on the Study Permit (Visa) granted by the Canadian The legal driving age in Manitoba is 16 years old. Embassy. International students attending the high school program may only ride in a vehicle if the driver has a valid driver’s International students attending the high school program license on their person and the vehicle is fully insured. are not allowed to have a paying job. This includes paid Post-secondary students attending ATC that hold a valid work for the homsetay family or any other paid work, driver’s license may be able to drive a vehicle. regardless of what form the payment is in. Students attending post-secondary school at ATC may have a International students will not be given permission paying job with proper documentation. to take Driver’s Education classes or other forms of driving instruction. They cannot write their driver’s Students may wish to volunteer (do non-paid work) at licence test while enrolled in the ISP. schools, religious organizations or community centres. Students are encouraged to volunteer for school credit, Homestay families or ISP staff may tell international for the benefit of making social connections, practicing students they are not allowed to travel in a vehicle when language skills and the positive feelings created in severe weather is causing bad road conditions. helping others. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers in any motor vehicle. Homestay families can and should insist they be worn.

Spending Money International students should not carry or display large amounts of cash and monies. For security purposes, all international students should open a personal bank account, particularly those students enrolled in the full year program. Large amounts of money can attract negative attention. Use of debit cards and small amounts of cash are recommended.

Homestay families should help international students to open a personal bank account at a local bank or credit union.

International students should not lend money to or borrow money from homestay family members or other students. International students are responsible for keeping track of their own budget.

15 Graduation, Convocation and Safe Grad

Students who complete the required course credits for Students 18 Years of Age or Older graduation in January will graduate during a convocation The rules and guidelines in this handbook and online ceremony in June. Parents and homestay families are welcome forms apply to ALL international students including to attend convocation ceremonies to celebrate graduation. those who are 18 years of age or older. The ISP will send a letter of invitation to students’ friends and family if it is required for their travel visa application. It is extremely important that international students and homestay families follow the same Students are responsible for covering the costs of rules and homestay guidelines even when the graduation, convocation, dinner and dance as well as student is 18 years of age or older. This helps Safe Grad. maintain fairness between students and families. International students are allowed to attend Safe Grad (as a ISP will share information with students’ biological graduate or a guest) if they meet all the school’s requirements parents and agents about their child and their for Safe Grad. Biological parents must sign permission forms performance and behaviour in school regardless of age. for Safe Grad as there may be alcohol at the event. International students are responsible for completing the Safe Grad forms required by their school and getting the EVENTS AND necessary signatures from their biological parents. If students ask, ISP staff can help them get the necessary PERMISSION signatures. Once international students leave Safe Grad, they must FORMS return directly to their homestay family. They are not allowed Biological Parental Signature to go to another place or party. Forms will state who will be picking the student up from the Safe Grad event. Occasionally, international students may require the signature of a biological parent, guardian or custodian on specific forms or documents. Most Other Events forms with financial commitment or for high risk activities will need to be signed by the student’s The ISP organizes additional group activities throughout biological parents. the school year for international students. Students will be told about special events in advance and given appropriate For example, if students wish to join a sports team, permission forms as needed. Students will need to get attend a gym, take music lessons or open a bank permission forms signed by the homestay parents to take part in account, they may require a signature from a group activities outside of school. There may be some additional biological parent. costs to the students beyond what the program covers. ISP staff will assist international students to get International students are strongly encouraged to participate signatures from their biological parents in their in ISP group activities. They provide great opportunities to home countries. Students should first tell their meet and connect with other international students. biological parents about the permission form and then contact ISP staff for help. Forms can be emailed through the ISP and are available online. 16 WHO SIGNS WHAT?

STUDENT 1) Terms and Conditions Contracts 2) Disclose Student Information

HOMESTAY 1) Permission for school-based day/field trips 2) Act on behalf of biological parents or custodian in emergency situations until ISP custodian/staff is contacted

Homestay families should not sign any contracts on the student’s behalf as all costs related to the ISP are the responsibility of the biological family. (Eg. cell phone, skating lessons or sports.)

CUSTODIAN 1) School related issues: the custodian will inform biological parents of any issues 2) Health emergency and hospital care: the custodian will inform biological parents of health emergencies and issues

BIOLOGICAL PARENTS 1) Permission for high risk activities form online 2) Permission to travel (independently or with homestay family). ISP will assist in getting permission forms signed. Once a form is completed with all necessary information and details it will be sent to ISP, who will forward it to biological parents for signature. 3) Any document requiring financial responsibility 4) Terms and Conditions 5) Extra-curricular activities if waivers are required 6) Safe Grad

17 HOMESTAY PROGRAM

About Canadian Families 6:00 pm. Family members are expected to be home at a scheduled time for supper and to call if they will not be Canadians generally can expect all family members home on time. Students are expected to do the same and to share in chores around the house. Students may tell the homestay family if they will not be home on time be expected to help with chores and tasks around the for dinner. homestay home. This may help the student feel more like a part of the family. As many Canadians recycle plastic, paper and glass, the homestay family can teach students what they do as Students are told that breakfast during the week will part of their recycling efforts. Many Canadians are also likely be toast, a muffin or cereal, and may include conscious of how much energy they use. They may try to pancakes, eggs or hot cereal on the weekend. Lunch is conserve energy by taking short showers, turning off the usually a light meal, such as soup, a salad or a sandwich. lights and electrical equipment when it is not being used Dinner or supper is the main meal of the day, and is eaten and turning the heat down at night. in the early evening, usually sometime between 5:00 and

“Every host is different – just like every student.”

18 Homestay Program Guide The ISP has carefully chosen homestay families who ISP staff work hard to make sure that international have a strong interest in other cultures. Families want students are placed with families that have similar a cultural exchange and would like to learn about a interests and needs. Considerations include: student’s home country. These families offer a strong English language environment. Homestay families also • Family dynamics have been screened and the ISP staff believe they are able • Pets (preferences, fears, allergies, etc.) to provide an appropriate and healthy living environment. • Medical concerns and allergies Any person 18 years of age or older living within a • General interest (sports, music, etc.) homestay home is required to undergo a criminal record • Dietary needs check and child abuse registry check. These checks are done for the safety of the international student. • Proximity to school placement

Families undergo an in-depth interview process and their The ISP has set guidelines for both students and homes are inspected by ISP staff. ISP staff members homestay families to follow. An important goal of the judge the home based on safety, interest, friendliness Homestay Program is to place international students and concern for the growth and development of the with families that will develop and encourage positive student. The emphasis is on a home that provides the relationships. student with comfortable surroundings and a place for Students should openly and honestly communicate with practicing and developing English language skills. their homestay families and ISP staff.

LRSD Homestay Program encourages families of many The ISP shares information with homestay families and different cultural backgrounds to join the program. students on an ongoing basis throughout the school Students typically will not be placed with a family of the year. Homestay parents are welcome and encouraged same cultural or language backgrounds, though in some to participate in parent-teacher events as the student’s cases this may be necessary or beneficial. family representative.

19 WHAT IS EXPECTED FROM THE HOMESTAY FAMILY

Students are encouraged to communicate with their homestay family first and then with ISP staff on all matters. Students are also encouraged to talk to their homestay family and ask questions if there is something they do not understand.

In the Homestay Program, international students should home can offer numerous opportunities for growth and be treated as family members. Students should not be learning. When young children bond with students, they treated as “honoured guests.” Instead, they should be help to engage them in English conversation. included in typical family life and activities – they will get Homestay environments provide the greatest to know the homestay family much quicker and will likely opportunity for learning the English language. feel less homesick. Students are in an ideal setting in which to learn new Students should be encouraged to participate in the skills and experience Canadian life. All members of homestay family’s daily routine. the homestay family are encouraged to promote good Students may be expected to complete their share of communication with their students. International household chores. This may include keeping their room students are expected to speak English at all times, both clean, maintaining tidiness in other areas of the home, at school and in their home—including while on the phone helping with meal preparation, cleaning dishes and doing with friends. Students are allowed to speak to family their own laundry. Household chores can be an excellent members in their language of choice. opportunity for learning and sharing moments between It is recommended that international students and their family members. Homestay families and international homestay families communicate by email before they students are encouraged to talk about household arrive in Winnipeg. Homestay families are also expected schedules and expectations for chores. to meet international students at the airport when they In some cases, international students become role arrive. This is an important beginning to the relationship. models or “brothers/sisters” to other children in the home. Spending time with younger children in the

2020 Homestay families will give students a full orientation Homestay families are asked to help the student with of their home and will share rules and expectations transportation needs. However, homestay families within the first 24 hours of the student’s arrival. Families are not responsible for daily transportation to and should be sure to give a detailed tour of their home. from school. Transportation costs are the student’s This includes showing the student how to use all items responsibility but offers to drive when weather is and appliances the student may end up using. Families bad or circumstances arise would be welcomed and should not assume that students will know how encouraged. Homestay families may choose to talk with everything works. Similar household items may function students about bus routes and encourage them to use differently in other countries. Homestay families should Winnipeg Transit. We suggest that families consider consider that this orientation is a lot of information for travelling the bus route with the student the first students to remember. They should encourage students time they use it. For more information on using public to ask questions if they don’t understand or can’t transportation, please refer to remember something. Homestay families should expect www.winnipegtransit.com/main that students may need gentle reminders. An international student shall expect the following from the homestay family:

A private bedroom that includes: 1 • a window that can be opened and nearby smoke detector • a bed, bedding, dresser, desk, chair, lamp and closet • adequate heat, light and ventilation

Homestay families should clarify what can be posted on walls, and how they can be fastened.

2 Access to washroom and bathing facilities.

Three daily meals and other reasonable snacks. International students and homestay families will decide how 3 meals will be prepared, including lunches to be brought to school.

Access to laundry facilities, explanations how to use the machines and routine schedules. Each homestay family 4 will have different routines and expectations for who will do the laundry. If the student is expected to do their laundry, they will need to be taught how.

Access to fire extinguishers is advised (especially in the kitchen). Families should talk about fire drill exits from 5 the student’s bedroom and other areas of the home. They should also discuss where to find and how to use a first aid kit as well as who to contact in case of emergency.

A key to the home and any security codes that are needed to access the home. Canadians typically lock their doors 6 when they leave the home and during the night when everyone is asleep. Students are responsible for the key they are given and if the key is lost, they are responsible for the cost involved in replacing the locks on the home.

Access to a telephone, computer and internet (within reasonable time limits). If there is no landline in the home, 7 the student must be provided with a cellphone and minutes to use.

A card containing important contact information, including homestay family names, address, phone numbers 8 (home and work) clearly printed, for the student to carry at all times. 21 Homestay Fees Meals with the Homestay Family Homestay Fees are to offset extra cost of having Although busy schedules mean there may be only one another person living in your home. family meal per day, family meals are encouraged. It is the student’s responsibility to be present for all evening International students are to pay a non-negotiable monthly meals when his or her schedule permits. Exceptions fee to LRSD (Canadian dollars). If a student will be away can be made ahead of time with permission from the for part of a month during the program (for example, homestay parent. during Christmas vacation, Spring Break, etc.) they are still responsible for the full month’s homestay fee. Students may find Canadian food very different from what they are accustomed to, but trying different foods is an Homestay fees do not cover extracurricular school important part of experiencing and learning the Canadian costs (such as sports team fees, band fees, etc.) and culture. Students who wish to share their recipes or extra costs for family outings such as vacations. food preparation techniques with the homestay family Students wanting to participate in such activities are are encouraged to do so. Sharing information of any kind responsible for the costs involved. Homestay families provides an excellent opportunity for English conversation. may offer to pay for some activities for the student such as a family meal at a restaurant, family bowling, movie Students should discuss their food likes and dislikes with night, etc. Students are responsible for buying their own the homestay family. It is important that students enjoy clothing, cosmetics and other personal effects including the food prepared for them. If a student has extreme likes toiletries and hygiene items. Students should also budget or dislikes, or any allergies, please have this discussion. for leisure activities, school articles, travel, bus fare, Students should join the family on at least one trip to the postage and long distance calls. grocery store to learn about what is available at local Students and their biological family should anticipate grocery stores. It is always a good idea for students to holidays that may cause delays in banking transfers. They share their opinions and help carry grocery bags when should plan ahead to make sure the student has the fees shopping with the homestay family. ahead of time to allow them to pay the homestay family Students also should tell their homestay families what on time. they might like to eat for breakfast and lunch. In most Please contact ISP staff directly if there are any concerns cases, students will be expected to prepare their own about financial matters relating to homestay fees. breakfast and lunch, once they have been taught and shown what is available.

Homestay families will let students know what is available for snacks after school or in the evenings. Homestay families will inform students of the limits to snack food so that students know what they need to purchase on their own.

When dining out with the family in the evening, the meal should be paid for by the family. If the student chooses to dine with friends, the student is responsible for paying for that meal.

22 HOMESTAY FOOD DO’S AND DON’TS

Do • Do ask your student about foods they are used to, their likes and dislikes. Some foods may be more • Do have simple meals and plenty of food being difficult to digest and some foods are not part of the respectful of dietary restrictions. No student should be diet of many countries – milk products are often hard going hungry and you may need to talk about food likes for students to adjust to (cheese, etc) and also bread and dislikes. made with wheat flour. Although they may try these • Encourage your student to help in the kitchen. foods, their bodies may reject them. Preparing, setting the table, clearing dishes, loading/ • Refer to the Canada Food Guide for guidelines of unloading the dishwasher – chores will make them feel feeding and teaching your student about foods and more a part of the family. how to eat in Canada. This is not taught in every grade • Try to remember a time when you might miss a level and every class. familiar food that is unavailable to you – this builds • Cover the cost of your student’s meal if eating out is empathy for how your student may be feeling while your plan. If they go out on their own (with friends or they are adjusting. alone), they can then pay for their own. • Explore the web to learn about how people eat in the country where your student comes from. A good website is foodbycountry.com for information and a Don’t few recipes. Better still, have them teach you about some of their foods – great conversation starter. • Don’t cook a separate meal specifically for your student, but if possible offer them choices if they do not like the • Do be patient. Adjusting a palate to a new country’s prepared meal. When they first arrive or when it is a cuisine can take some time and their bodies can take health or religious concern, are the exceptions. time to adjust. By the time they go home, they will have a whole new list of favourite foods. • Don’t feel that you have to learn how to cook only Italian food because you have an Italian student. Most • Do teach them about our foods. Show them how to work students will appreciate it if you try to cook a recipe the appliances in the kitchen if they are expected to or two of foods that they are familiar with. See ideas/ get some foods on their own (toaster, microwave, etc.). recipes at foodbycountry.com. • Don’t expect that they should already know how to do certain things. For example, if they have never made a sandwich, they will not know how to do it, what to put in it, and where to find everything they need. They may need to be taught.

23 Showers/Baths Home Access

Homestay families and students should talk about what Some students may never have had to think about home is an appropriate length of time for a shower/bath and an security. appropriate time of day. In most cases, a showering time of approximately 10 minutes is reasonable. International International students must be provided with their students should leave the bathroom clean and dry when own keys to the house. They need to be taught how to finished using it. Students may need to be shown what is properly lock the house when they leave and how to get expected. into the house when they get home. Students are responsible for their house keys at all times. Students who misplace their keys will be expected Laundry Facilities to pay for the cost of re-keying the locks and replacing the keys. Some homestay families may offer to include the student’s clothes in the family laundry; however, this is If the home has an alarm system, homestay families not an expectation. must give the student instructions and show them how to use the alarm. Homestay families should also Some students may feel awkward about including tell students what to do in case of a false alarm. When personal clothes with the family’s laundry. Homestay possible, homestay families should give students their families may want to provide laundry bags that can own alarm code. be put directly into the washer and dryer to avoid any feelings of embarrassment.

Homestay families who expect their students to do their own laundry will show the student how to properly use washers and dryers.

What Makes a Great Homestay? Homestay experience will depend on attitude and friendliness. An open mind and readiness to adjust to the differences in lifestyle will ensure a successful experience. The more a student gets involved in their new life, the easier it will be to enjoy living in Canada.

24 Household Checklist Bedroom • Who will wash the sheets? How often? The following sections provide some ideas about what may be rules or information your student will • Should the room always be kept tidy? require understanding his or her new environment. • Will anyone else in the family enter the student’s room? • What if they student is too cold or too hot? General • Are there any areas of the house that are private or Laundry off limits? • Will the student do her or his own laundry? • Are there any rules about pets? (In or out, feeding • When is a good time or day to do laundry? time, etc.) • Where should dirty clothes be kept before laundry day? • Can their friends visit them at home or stay overnight? • Teach them how to operate the machines? • What time do you wake up? During the week? On weekends? What’s the curfew? Getting Around • What is the bus route to the school? Kitchen • Where is the bus stop and how long is the bus ride? • What time are meals? • What is the bus schedule? • Can the students help themselves to food or drink? • Where is the nearest store to purchase bus passes and • Will they need to prepare their own breakfast or lunch? other items? • Where are glasses/dishes/utensils kept? Communications/Electronics • How do the stove/microwave work? • Does the student have a cell phone or need help to set • What is the dish-washing procedure? up a plan? Bathroom • Can they listen to messages on your answering • When is a good time to shower/bathe? machine? • What is your family routine, and when is the bathroom • Can they use the family computer and when is it a usually busy? good time to use it? • What is a reasonable time to stay in the shower? • What are the instructions to use the TV or other • Should the shower curtain be tucked into the bathtub? electronic devices? • Should they clean or wipe the shower after each use? • Are there times when they should not use the TV or play on the computer? • Where are cleaning supplies kept? • Should they answer your home phone? • Where are dirty towels placed and where are clean ones kept?

25 Host Family and Student Expectations

Host Family Student

House Rules

• Clarify your expectations early on. • Each family may have different house rules. Host • If there are specific rules, put them in writing (for families will go over the rules. example, no phone calls after 10 pm). • Be sure to understand and respect Homestay • Be sure students understand any specific rules or expectations. preferences. • When unsure ask for clarification.

Food/Meals

• Provide breakfast, lunch (make school lunch), dinner • Be on time for family meals. and snacks. • If delayed or absent, students should phone/text family • Tell student what time you expect them for meals. in advance. • Provide a variety of foods, including adequate proteins, • If allergies or serious dislikes are a concern, family fruits/vegetables and meat. should be notified. • Ask if the student has any dislikes or preferences. • Students should offer to help with small tasks such as • Ask if the student has any food allergies. setting the table or cleaning up. • If you decide to eat one of the three meals in a • At times the students may prepare their own meals. restaurant you should expect to pay for the • Students should share recipes from her/his country. student’s meal. • Open discussions about food are very important. • Take students grocery shopping. It may help to learn what foods they like and/or know about.

Respect

• Respect cultural or religious differences. • Respect the house rules. • Respect student’s privacy in her/his room. • Respect cultural or religious differences. • Listen to and ask about additional needs. • Be truthful. Express concerns or rules in a • Be truthful. Express concerns or rules in a respectful manner. respectful manner.

26 Host Family Student

Family Life

• Treat the student as a member of the family, not as a • Students are expected to behave as a member of the guest. family, not as a guest. • Treat your student as you would wish your own child • Students are encouraged to participate in family to be treated in another country. activities. • Include the student in family activities when • Students should talk to their host family about appropriate and invite them to be a part of regular problems or needs first, instead of their biological routines. parents who are far away. ISP staff members can facilitate the discussion when needed. • Students should offer to help.

Bedrooms

• Provide a comfortable, private room with a bed • Students should keep their bedroom clean and wash (sheets, blankets, and pillow), closet, dresser/shelves, bedding as needed. desk, chair, and lamp. • Host parents are not expected to clean the bedroom. • Respect the privacy of the student’s bedroom. • Students should turn off any lights or additional • Unless there is an emergency, permission to enter a heaters when not in their bedroom. student’s room should be requested by knocking on the • There should not be food in student bedrooms. door or asking.

Household Chores

• As a member of the family, students should be • As a member of the family, students should help with expected to help with light household chores such the general household work, such as offering to clear as setting or clearing the table. or set the table. • If students are interested, they may be encouraged to • If a student is interested, they can help with meal help with other light chores. preparation, taking out the garbage or sweeping • Students should not be expected to babysit for the floor. long periods of time, or engage in heavy cleaning or • Students may help with children in the house by housework. reading to them or playing with them. • Each homestay chooses how to do laundry in their • Students should do their own laundry. home. If a student is expected to do their own, they need to be taught.

27 Host Family Student

Language Practice

• Many international students choose to live in homestay • Students should practice their English/French skills as an opportunity to practice English/French. with their homestay family. • Host families can help by conversing with students • Students should always communicate with homestay on a number of topics and helping them build their about concerns that she/he has. vocabulary, or by explaining movies, television or • Students should ask for clarification when she/he does other contexts. not understand instructions or conversation. • Host family should be patient, speak slowly and try to remember that lower level English students may need time and assistance to learn basic words and structures. • Avoid using idioms or slangs without explanation. Things that are a “piece of cake” for us may take time to learn and understand. • Homestay family should repeat instructions as the student may not have understood everything that was said. Ask them to repeat back or show you that they understand.

Cultural Exchange

• Host family may be the first introduction to Canadian • Many host families choose to host international culture. students as a way to exchange culture and learn about • Students will perceive Canada and Canadian customs the student’s culture. through host family examples. • Students are encouraged to share her/his perspective on Canadian customs. • Students should limit computer time to allow more time for English activities. • Students should participate in school activities to meet people and converse.

28 HOMESTAY FAMILY DO’S AND DON’TS

Do • Try to take them to see some of Winnipeg – maybe once a month. Encourage them to participate in many • Help the student to feel at home. Be natural and different activities, including the ones offered by the informal and treat them as part of the family as you international department. would a niece or nephew living with you. Learn a few • Treat them as you would want your own children words in their language. treated by a family in another culture. • Learn a bit about their country and how to pronounce • Do get to know each other and have fun!!! their name. The more they engage in conversation, the more confidence they will have. Keep in mind that talking about school may not be the most interesting Don’t topic for them. • Go through the program handbook together – this can • Don’t assume that because they are teenagers that prompt some good conversations. they will just ‘know’ how to do something and or behave appropriately – they have been raised in another culture • Give them a tour of your home and show them how and family and change takes time. to work everything including showers, appliances, and alarm systems. Things here may work differently than • Don’t misinterpret their body language (eye contact, in their home country. etc.) & shyness for disinterest or ‘attitude’. • Help them feel comfortable in your home, and in your • Do not discuss financial issues with the student. community. Teach them how to take the bus to and Finance discussions should be kept between adults. from school and other locations that they may like to Students may interpret your concerns about the cost of go to (the mall, etc.). wasting food, long shower times increasing water bills, as your interest in hosting being focused on financial. • Assist them in setting up a bank account (Royal Bank), Find other words to express your feelings about waste. cell phone and if they arrive in second semester, get an ID card. A city transit ID is the easiest way to do that • Don’t sign anything that will commit to finance or on Osborne Street and they only need their letter of responsibility (i.e., cell phone contracts, waivers for acceptance as additional ID (cost under $10). high risk activities). • Teach them how to lock up your home properly when • Don’t assume that they understand when they answer they leave the house and how to get in, if they arrive ‘yes’ all the time. They may be embarrassed to say home first. Some students may never have been the that they didn’t understand. If you need to be sure, last out or first home. Some may never have had alarm ask them to tell you what they understood. Encourage systems in their homes or even locked their doors! them to say “I don’t understand”. • Be respectful of their privacy; ask them to be present • Don’t think that they are ‘spoiled’ because they do not when you go into their room. know how to do something. Many cultures do not ask their children to be as independent as ours. They are • Be patient with the time it may take for them to do here to learn some life skills in this experience and will things ‘our way’. be thankful to you for teaching them. You just may not • Learn about your student through conversation/photos. know it until later. • Please check with the IS dept. if you are unsure about • Don’t be surprised if your student comes home later anything (signing things, travel requirements, etc.). than the time they said they would. Different cultures • Include them in family activities, celebrations and may have different views of time. outings. If you invite them to a family activity such as a • Don’t treat your student as a guest. If you start by meal out/bowling/movie/etc., you should pay their way doing things for them, and then later expect them to if you are paying for your own children. do it, they may think that you are not happy with them. If the expectation is that they do something, you will most likely need to teach them how to do something, and then explain when they are to do it on their own. 29 Open Door Policy Students should set aside time each week for fun activities and relaxation. Much of this time should At no time should a student be behind closed doors with be with members of the homestay family, although another person. Doors should be kept open at all times activities with school friends are also important. except when privacy is warranted (for example, when changing clothes, using the washroom or going to sleep Canadians tend to plan things a little more than at night). some other cultures. It is a good idea to make social arrangements in advance out of courtesy for the The student should have their door open as much as homestay family. possible until they go to bed. Closed doors can limit airflow and decrease interaction with their homestay family. Communication with the students is very important and helps to prevent confusion and misunderstandings. Students should ask permission before going out, rather Making Social Plans than informing their homestay family that they are going out. It is also courteous for students to introduce their While academic study, growth and development are the friends to the homestay family so they know who the main goals of the program, group interaction and meeting student is spending time with. people are also important for a successful experience. The homestay family is not expected to just “know” where the student will be or remember plans that may have been mentioned days earlier.

Homestay families should be asking the student: • Where they are going • Who they are with • How they can be reached (phone #, text, etc.) • When they will be returning

This is a safety issue for the host family to be able to reach or locate the student. Remember, if students’ parents call from their home country, it is reassuring to them if the homestay family can tell them where the student is.

If students are going to be later than they had planned, they must contact their homestay family immediately and agree on a new time to return home.

3030 Curfews Religious Beliefs Curfews are set for international students which require Homestay families and international students should them to stay at home after a specific time at night. show mutual respect for each other’s beliefs. Students have the right to practice their own religion and homestay As a regular member of the homestay family, students families should help students to attend religious services. must respect the rules of the household. Factors If they wish, international students may also go with their determining curfews may include school night versus homestay families to religious services and activities weekend, type of activity, age of the student and ages of (for example, weddings and funerals). Homestay families other homestay family members, and limited bus service. cannot insist that students accompany them to attend The ISP supports a 10:00 p.m. curfew from Sunday services or religious activities. to Thursday and a 12:00 a.m. curfew on Fridays and An exchange of cultural beliefs can be enriching and Saturdays for high-school-aged students. provide great opportunities for conversation. This means that no student, regardless of age, should have an established curfew later than midnight. Special arrangements may be made for exceptional circumstances.

Students should be reminded to phone their homestay family if there is a problem and if they cannot be home on time.

Sleepovers International students may invite a friend for a sleepover only if the host family gives permission. International students can sleepover at another homestay in the LRSD program if it is planned in advance and discussed between homestay parents. The homestay parents must agree on the plans and notify ISP personnel.

International students may be allowed to stay overnight at a home that is not part of the LRSD homestay program only if the proper documentation is completed and signed by biological parents (please see Permission to Travel, page 34). The Louis Riel School Division and LRSD homestay families will not assume any responsibility for the student during this time period.

31 Homestay Travel All students are covered by Guard.me insurance and/or Manitoba Health for travel, except in their own country. The student may travel with the homestay family if the After completing this form, please keep a copy for your student is invited and permission has been given by the record and have it when travelling. biological parents. ISP must be notified of any travel plans. Travel should not interfere with school attendance. For the Permission to Travel Form check out our website isp.lrsd.net in the Student and Homestay When the student is not able to travel with the homestay section. family, the homestay family must make arrangements with ISP staff. There are two options in this case: • A reliable family member or friend who meets all Independent Travel required security checks may stay with the student in Students who would like to travel while attending school the homestay family’s home while the family is away. in the Louis Riel School Division or after they are finished • The international student may stay with another school and before they return to their home country homestay family. This may include a trade of time or must follow these rules: payment to the other homestay family. • Students must tell ISP staff of their travel plans and Notify ISP if fees need to be adjusted through the provide written permission from their parents program. • Students should plan travel after their exams and school are complete

Permission to Travel – Parental/Legal The International Student Program will not be responsible for students once the program has ended and whenever Guardian Form they travel. Students who wish to travel while they are participants Travel should not interfere with academic studies and in the Louis Riel School Division International Student should be limited to school holiday periods (2 weeks Program must provide the written permission of their at Christmas or 1 week at Spring Break). biological parents/legal custodian by submitting this form to the International Student Program at least 48 hours prior to their departure. 32 Traveling to the USA to see the school and meet their teachers. Boyfriends/ girlfriends are not allowed to visit while students are If travel to the USA is by driving through any border participating in the ISP. crossing, the student may be required to complete an I-94 form. There is a small cost associated with this and The ISP can send letters of invitation to friends and the student will be fingerprinted. This form is valid for 6 family members that need them for their Canadian visitor Visa applications. Students or their parents should months but MUST be returned to US customs before contact the ISP to request this letter. departing Canada. Not returning this form prior to departure could result in the student not being allowed back into the USA. Travel Outside of Canada Students from the following countries do NOT require a US Visa to travel to the USA due to the fact their home There are several important documents that students country is part of the US Visa Waiver Program: Austria, must have before traveling outside Canada. Students Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, must make arrangements to receive all required Slovakia, South Korea, Spain and Switzerland. To verify documents well in advance of their trip. These that there have not been any changes, please visit: documents include but may not be limited to: • A valid passport from their country with an expiry date www.immihelp.com/visa-waiver-program. beyond 6 months of their return date Some students may not be eligible to travel to the USA • A Multiple Entry Canadian Visitor Visa may be required without a valid Visa. Visa requirements will vary from for students from many countries one nationality to another. Please check USA Visa • Students from many countries may require a Visa requirements. if traveling to the USA or other countries outside of Canada • A Permission to Travel Form signed by the student’s Visitors to Canada biological parents If students are planning to have visitors come to Canada, • An authorization letter (provided by ISP), giving they need to talk about this in advance with both the permission to the homestay family or other adult to ISP and the homestay family. It is a good idea to plan take the student out of Canada, signed by the student’s visits when they will not interfere with studies. Students biological family should not expect the homestay family to host their Please contact ISP staff if planning to travel outside friends and family members. ISP recommends that of Canada. There are several documents that students visitors to Canada are not encouraged to stay with must have before traveling outside of Canada. Students the homestay family. Visitors must make their own must make arrangements to receive all required arrangements for lodging and ISP will help facilitate documents well in advance to their trip. the sharing of that information. ISP must be notified of visitors coming to see ISP students. The ISP can See next page for a sample copy of the Permission to arrange a tour of the school if their parents would like Travel form that can be found online.

33 SAMPLE FORM

Permission to Travel Parental/Legal Guardian

Students who wish to travel while they are participants in the Louis Riel School Division International Student Program, must provide the written permission of their biological parents/legal custodian by submitting this form to the International Student Program at least 48 hours prior to their departure. All students are covered by Guard Me insurance and/or Manitoba Health for travel except in their own country. After completing this form, please keep a copy for your record and have it when travelling. Check one that applies:

� Travel with Homestay � Recurrent Travel If this is a recurrent travel, only one consent will be required.

� Independent Travel For students in the Louis Riel School Division program, we do require written consent from the biological parents for all independent travel in or outside the province. The Louis Riel School Division and the Louis Riel School Division Homestay families will not assume any responsibility for the student during such travel. All international students must have a responsible adult who is at least 21 years old who will be responsible for them at the destination.

Name of Student: Phone number at destination:

Address at Destination:

Method of travel: � Air �Train � Car � Bus

Dates of trip (Include flight # and times)

Departure from Winnipeg: Return to Winnipeg:

COSTS THE STUDENT MAY HAVE TO COVER: (give the amount or approximate and brief description of what would be applied to)

Winnipeg Contact (in case of emergency) Contact in Home Country (in case of emergency)

Name Name

Phone Phone

CONTACT INFORMATION OF ADULT RESPONSIBLE FOR STUDENT AT DESTINATION

Name: Phone: D.O.B. (mm/dd/yyyy) Note 1: If you are travelling outside of Canada, please ensure you have all necessary documentation to do so. This includes all of the necessary visa and paperwork needed to enter another country and to re-enter Canada. Failure to do so may result in the refusal to enter another country, or being refused re-entry back into Canada. This is important and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure all document requirements are met.

Note 2: Unauthorized travel by a student is not permitted and could result in the student being released from the program and returned home.

Note 3: In case of any emergency immediately call 204-223-0674, 204-228-8711, or 204-960-1834.

I, the undersigned, give my child permission to travel as outlined above.

Signature of Biological Parent/Legal Guardian Date

34 Homestay Concerns Change of Homestay Family Living interculturally can be difficult. If students have Life in a new country or welcoming a new member into concerns about their homestay family, they are asked a household can take adjustment and time. For this to first talk about their concerns with the family reason, full-term international students and homestay directly. Contacting biological parents or an agent about families should commit to a minimum semester-long homestay family concerns is not a good way to solve homestay arrangement. All participants are encouraged problems. Homestay families are also encouraged to to try to adjust to each other’s lives to create a positive speak with students about concerns they may have. environment together.

Miscommunication, lack of communication or a Although the majority of placements in the Homestay misunderstanding is often the source of the problem. Program are successful, changes in placement may Discussing expectations when the student first arrives in be necessary in some cases. Many times, a change of Canada can help to prevent issues. homestay placement can be avoided by reviewing and following these Homestay Program guidelines. Either Most issues between homestay families and students participant may contact ISP staff to look at the situation can be resolved with an open mind, understanding and and determine a reasonable solution or compromise. compromise from both sides. If after communicating with each other the concern is not solved, students An international student and/or homestay family may should contact ISP staff for help. request a change of placement only after both parties have tried to resolve concerns. If a change of homestay ISP staff will work with international students and is needed, ISP staff will require some time to make new homestay families to help with any unsolved problems. living arrangements. ISP staff encourage students not to wait too long to address issues or concerns. The ISP reserves the right to move a student without advance notice if we decide a situation is unsafe or unsatisfactory for either party.

Departure Expectations When students decide to leave their homestay, it is very important to give proper notice (see sections on Homestay Fees and Change of Homestay Family). Students may feel awkward about talking to their homestay family about leaving their home. Homestay families understand that students leave for a variety of reasons: going back to their country, moving to another city or moving into an apartment. It is important that students let their homestay family know at this point what they have enjoyed about living in their home. Students should also make sure the family knows that the decision to move is not a rejection of them. If students are honest and up front when communicating with them, the homestay family will do their best to make sure that the student’s last month with them will be enjoyable.

35 GOING HOME – END OF PROGRAM CHECKLIST FOR STUDENTS

It may be difficult for students to think about leaving Winnipeg at the end of their studies. The student might have mixed emotions about going home; excited to see their family and friends again, but also sad to leave their homestay family and new friends. Students are encouraged to keep in touch with their host family and friends! Notice to Students Students should contact ISP with their return flight/date/time and provide reservation and airline code. Please be at the airport with plenty of time to spare. The student should be at the airport at least two hours early. Be prepared for long line-ups at the security. Be sure that your student has their passports and other documents required such as the airline ticket before leaving home. Make sure they take all their electronics, including their cell phone, charger, etc… THINGS TO DO DONE Book return flight. Confirm the time of your flight a day or two before the departure date. Check 1 with the airlines for luggage weight and size restrictions, as well as carry-on restrictions. Be ¨ prepared to pay extra baggage costs by cash or credit card.

Be sure carry-on bags adhere to weight & allowable items. Check out catsa-acsta.gc.ca for more ¨ 2 information.

3 Pay any owed and/or outstanding bills. (Homestay parents, cell phones, school). ¨

Close any Canadian bank account and make sure the bank has your address in your home country. 4 You should have some Canadian money to travel with for excess luggage fees and food while ¨ traveling.

5 Return the HOMESTAY HOUSE KEY prior to leaving homestay. ¨

6 Return borrowed items to their place (library books, text books, graphic calculators, etc.). ¨

YEAR BOOK – If the you want to receive a yearbook from your school, you must make 7 arrangements to see the secretaries at the front office of their school and pay for it. Please provide ¨ a pre-paid envelope with your home address to the school’s main office.

36 REPORT CARD/TRANSCRIPTS – Please be sure that you have all the necessary documents to take ¨ 8 with you or notify ISP to have them mailed to your home address.

If you have plans to stay in Winnipeg for any time after the end of the Program, you should check 9 with the homestay family and the ISP staff as soon as possible. No assumptions should be made as some host families may have a new student moving in and your will need to extend your health ¨ insurance through the ISP office as well. If you will be doing any travelling before going home, ISP should be notified.

10 You need to clean your room and dispose of or donate all items not being taken home. ¨

11 You should make sure ISP has the correct information (Email, cell number and home address). ¨

You are encouraged to keep ISP up to date on your achievements after leaving the program. ISP ¨ 12 would love to hear from you and about all your endeavours.

37 HOMESTAY FAMILY AGREEMENT

I, agree to abide by the following Program guidelines:

1. I will act as a judicious, caring parent, and regard the International Student as a family member. I will maintain involvement the student’s daily life at school. I agree to interact with the student daily, include the student in appropriate family activities and occasionally transport the student to certain activities, as required.

2. I agree that the primary consideration for hosting a student is for the cross-cultural experience. I agree to respect the culture and values of the student and provide activities and/or experiences that will expose the student to our Canadian culture.

3. I will keep all information about the student confidential. Personal and academic information about the student will be shared only with the International Student Program (ISP). When disposing of any information regarding the student, I will shred or similarly discard any documents. I will not share information with anyone not authorized by the ISP staff.

4. I will contact the ISP should problems occur with the student (legal, medical, academic, behavioural, etc.). I will immediately advise the ISP of any medical emergency or accident.

5. I will set clear, reasonable and age-appropriate rules for the student, and ensure they are clearly understood. I acknowledge that the student may not use any drugs, alcohol, tobacco or other controlled substances, and I agree to contact the ISP directly and immediately, should these issues arise.

7. I will provide an environment conducive to homework completion and studying, and will provide supportive interest in the student’s school progress. I will attend parent/teacher interviews as requested. If academic challenges are encountered, I will contact the school and the ISP to undertake appropriate and timely interventions.

8. I will inform the ISP of any concerns regarding issues with student communications, behaviour, or non-compliances with our home rules.

9. I will inform and update the ISP of any communications between the student’s biological family and me. I will re-direct any matters concerning academics and financials directly to the ISP. ISP recommends that visitors to Canada are not encouraged to stay with the homestay family. Visitors must make their own arrangements for lodging and ISP will help facilitate the sharing of that information. ISP must be notified of visitors coming to see ISP students.

10. I will provide each student with his/her own bedroom. The bedroom will include the necessary furnishings and an area appropriate for studying.

11. I will allow the student reasonable use of a computer for educational and communication purposes in accordance with the Louis Riel School Division’s Computer & Internet Use Policy.

12. I will provide the student with phone numbers to reach me during the day, as well as a house key, alarm security codes and instructions regarding home safety.

13. I will provide the student with three meals daily and other reasonable snacks.

14. I will provide an “English-only” environment for an International Student in the English program or a “French-only” environment for a student in the French Immersion program.

15. I will inform the ISP if I host a student from another program.

16. I will inform the ISP if there is a change of my contact information (phone numbers, email addresses, etc.)

17. I understand that the ISP may move a student if it is in the best interest of the student. I will only be paid for the time that they were there.

18. I will not allow an International Student to drive any motorized vehicle.

38 19. I will not allow an International Student to participate in any activity that may be considered dangerous or inappropriate to the student. If I am not sure if an activity is appropriate, I will contact the ISP.

20. I am aware that I am responsible for arranging adequate liability insurance to cover an International Student living in my home.

21. I understand that hosting a student does not automatically guarantee that I will host a student in the future.

22. I will obtain consent from the ISP for student travel. Adequate notice must be provided to the ISP if documents are required for travel.

23. If it is necessary for me to be away from home, I will make arrangements for a responsible adult, who has passed a recent Child Abuse Registry Check and Criminal Record Check, to stay at my home with the student. If it is an emergency, I will inform the ISP immediately. I understand that an LRSD International Student cannot be left alone overnight. If I do I will make proper arrangements for the student as per the ISP guidelines.

24. I will not make travel/holiday plans that would interfere with my commitment to the student during this time period.

25. I will follow all policies as they pertain to the Homestay Program of the Louis Riel School Division.

26. I understand that it will be my responsibility to welcome the student at the airport when they arrive and taking them to the airport for their departure. If I am unable to provide this service for my student, I will make suitable arrangements with family and/or friends.

The Louis Riel School Division requires that all homestay parents (and adults over the age of 18 years who live in the household) submit to a Criminal Record check ($45 per person) and a clearance from the Child Abuse Registry. Child Abuse registry forms are available from the International Student Program, and must be submitted only once this application is approved and subject to home inspection. All homestay families are responsible for informing the International Student Program of any changes in the status of their family.

I have read the important notes regarding my application. I hereby certify that the information given in this application is true, correct, and complete, to the best of my knowledge. I understand that falsified or misleading statements and omissions will result in rejection of my homestay application.

I understand that any information secured by the Division is protected by the Protection of Privacy provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The Louis Riel School Division will use information obtained on this Form only to complete the homestay family application process. This includes conducting reference checks. This information will not be shared with other organizations and will remain confidential.

Applicant(s) Signature(s) Date: (DD/MM/YYYY)

International Student Program Signature Date: (DD/MM/YYYY)

39 FAQ What if parents work outside the home? Here are the answers to some of the most frequently It usually is not a problem as students will be attending asked questions by families interested in hosting an school during the day. If there is no one at home due to international student. Please contact us for further a work schedule that includes many evening shifts, this clarifications with any other questions you may have. may not be the best for a student who would have no one home for dinner time or for support in the evenings. A student cannot be left alone overnight. Why become a homestay family? Your family can bring some of this vast world into your home by hosting a student. You will also contribute actively Can I host if I am a single parent? to the promotion of peace and intercultural understanding. Yes. More single parent families are taking part in our You may even develop long-term bonds and could even program and deciding to host international student. be invited to your student’s wedding in the future!

Do we have to pay? What are the requirements to become a homestay family? Homestay fees are paid by the students to LRSD and the division then pays the homestay families at the end Louis Riel School Division ISP makes no distinction as to of each month that they host a student. The homestay race, gender, language, religion, family composition or family provides the student with support, advice, care social status in the selection of homestay families. If you and a room and food as they would a niece or nephew. want to meet young people from other cultures, have a The students will have money from their biological generous heart, have a good sense of humour and lots family for personal expenses, bus passes, clothing and of patience, are flexible, are interested to learn and have independent entertainment. a spare furnished room and willing to open your home... then you are eligible to host an international student!

Please note that LRSD requires that all family members How long do the students stay in living in the homestay who are over 18 years of age have Winnipeg? a current criminal record check to be done and will also Most of our families host for a period of a school year process a child abuse registry check before a student with the majority of our students arriving in late August can be placed in their home. or early September. The length of a student’s stay varies from 4 weeks to a full school year. Some students will go home during the summer months and return each year What if our children are still young? until they complete high school. In these cases, if the Maybe a new older brother or sister is what they need. relationship between student and family is going well, Some students will specifically request to be place with a they could continue hosting for a few years. If a change family with young children as that is what will feel most is requested, then the end of semester or end of a school like their family back home. year would be the most logical times to make a change.

Can we choose the student that we Must a student have his/her own host? bedroom? ISP will select the best student for you based on the Yes – a private furnished room with a door and window information available. Matches of students with families will that meet safety & building codes is required. be based on health information, interests, preferences etc.

40 Which school does the student attend? collaborate with ISP, respect the rules and standards required, and among others, to encourage regular The students are placed in an LRSD high school within contact between the student and ISP. Students remain an approximate 30 minute bus ride from the homestay. under the responsibility and legal custodianship of ISP. Some exemptions may apply.

What support is offered by LRSD ISP? What happens if we already have vacations planned? ISP staff are here to help you if you have any questions or concerns. The international students also have The student must adapt to your family. If you wish, support available to them when they need help and ISP the student can go on vacations with your family. If it are at the schools on a regularly scheduled day every is not possible, we will have to find a temporary family week. In case of an emergency, an ISP staff member will while you are away. If you do not know anyone (friends, always be available 24 hours a day, and 7 days a week. relatives, etc.) who could take care of the student in your home while you are away, ISP will help to find a temporary family and the homestay fees would be What is the selection procedure? adjusted for the time that you are away. You will need to first complete the homestay family application and send it to the ISP office complete with 3 Do we have to host the student for the references that we will be able to contact by phone or email who are not family members. whole program length? An ISP staff member will come to your home to see the The homestay family commitment is usually for the whole space that you have available for a student, to learn program length. Program length can be from 4 weeks more about you and to go over the program in detail. to a full school year. We understand that priorities and family situations can change. Moreover, even though ISP Once a student has been selected for you, ISP staff will tries to make the best match possible, sometimes it does contact you with a brief profile of information which not work out. ISP offers support to both the families consists of information provided on their application and students. If a difficulty arises, the ISP staff can be form and photos if available. Once you have accepted contacted who will try to sort out the situation. If it does the student, your information and photo will be sent to not work out, ISP will find a new family for the student. the student and they will be asked to contact you first by email to begin your communications so you can get to know each other a bit before they arrive. What are the roles and responsibilities of the homestay family? How old are the students and where do By hosting an international student, the families agree to provide them with a clean and safe environment, food and they come from? the support required to ensure a successful integration We do not take students into our homestay program and positive experience. Families commit themselves to under 12 years of age and they go up to grade 12. They come from countries all over the world.

CONCLUSION

Thank you for reading through the Louis Riel School Division International Student Program Guide. More information is available online at www.isp.lrsd.net. If you have any questions please visit our website or contact our office by phoning 1.204.257.7827 or email [email protected].

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