Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)

Established in August of 2007, the Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) Program of the Vancouver School Board (VSB) has already assisted over 10,000 immigrants and refugees in its first 2 years of existence.

The SWIS Program is ‘housed’ in the District Reception and Placement Centre in Vancouver, which gives the registrants direct access to the SWIS services. The workers are also based in schools so they have direct contact with clients and school resources.

The SWIS team comes from diverse cultural backgrounds and have multiple language capacities to accommodate more immigrants and refugees. This program falls under the Vancouver School Board District #39.

Contact information for SWIS

MISSION STATEMENT VSB-SWIS is committed to providing professional settlement services to immigrants, refugees, other eligible students and families by: embracing diversity, advocating empowerment and facilitating engagement in schools and the Canadian society. VISION STATEMENT To be the leader in providing professional school-based settlement services that will empower and support immigrants, refugees, other eligible students and families to enable them to fully participate in a culturally-diverse society. CORE VALUES Supportive Welcoming Inclusive Service

SWIS PROGRAM GOALS

1. To inform the clients (students, parents and families) about the various Canadian standards and practices and their rights and responsibilities.
2. To enable the student and parents to reach their full potential so they can navigate effectively in the school system and community.
3. To empower the immigrants to adjust better in Canada
4. To promote SWIS roles and responsibilities to the general public 
5. To elevate the level of competence and bring about a systemic change in the program delivery
6. To be recognized as a professional settlement service provider

SWIS PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

1. To increase the client’s capability to adjust faster and better in a new environment through regular information, education and communication activities
2. To execute model programs and approaches in settlement service that will empower the students and families to become self-reliant.
3. To develop a ‘SWIS brand’ that is simple and easy to understand and remember.
4. To maintain a positive SWIS image through continuous orientation and relationship-building in schools and communities.

SWIS Logo

Equipped with a new logo and slogan, the SWIS team is more than eager and excited to help you to participate fully in your new home.

This new logo focuses on animated energy and flow. It clearly reflects the connection between three people who have joined hands in an upward direction. This is synonymous to the type of service that SWIS offers. They guide and empower the families to eventually become self-sufficient. The three colors represent passion, growth and loyalty.

All solid colors that also depict the unity of the SWIS Team in their continuing efforts to provide professional settlement services.

From an aerial perspective, the people have open arms, portraying the “welcoming” value of the SWIS Team who embraces diversity.