How to Find Your School District and Enroll Your Child in Ontario
In Ontario, school districts are based on your home address. You don't choose a school; the system assigns one based on where you live. First, find your local school, then contact your school board to enroll.
Step 1: Find Your School
- Go to the Ontario government's "Find a school" page (link below).
- Enter your address or school name to browse a map or list.
- Each school profile includes contact info, grades offered (elementary: JK-8, secondary: 9-12), EQAO test scores, and demographics.
Note: Grade ranges vary by school.
Step 2: Contact Your School Board
- After finding your school, contact your local school board for enrollment details.
- Most children can attend public school for free regardless of immigration status.
- Typical documents: birth certificate, proof of address (lease, utility bill), vaccination records, and previous report cards.
Confirm exact requirements with the board.
Common Pitfalls
- District boundaries: Not all schools accept out-of-district students; verify your address is in the school's catchment area.
- French-language schools: May have eligibility restrictions (e.g., parent must be francophone).
- Catholic schools: May prioritize Catholic families, but many accept others.
- Timing: Enroll early, especially before the new school year, as spots can fill up.