A qualitative analysis of ethnic/racial congruence in schools and the challenges and supports newcomer families experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

This qualitative study aims to understand the different challenges and supports newcomer families experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also seeks to understand the association between support received and ethnic representation in schools. Participants for this study were parents from the pilot evaluation of a school-based intervention for newcomer youth. Interviews and school demographics were analyzed to identify challenges, supports, and ethnic/racial congruence.Newcomer parents experienced challenges with meeting human needs, such as financial, health, and academic challenges. The study also concludes that schools should work towards better demographic collection that represents all students and their multiple identities