The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) has been serving students in the Capital Region of Canada for over 100 years. It prides itself on being a leader in elementary and secondary education in Canada and has set a standard of excellence for other school boards to follow. OCDSB students have distinguished themselves at colleges and universities throughout the world. The list of schools available to students in the district includes 25 high schools and 120 elementary schools located in urban, suburban, and rural surroundings. The OCDSB covers a geographical area of 1,800 square kilometres and is ideally situated for international students. The region offers a bilingual community in a culturally rich environment. Students have access to embassies from around the world and to some of the best libraries and research centres in the country.

OCDSB is well known for its expertise in curriculum development and is respected for its strong academic programs and for the quality of instruction in its classrooms. The OCDSB has implemented English as a Second Language program to help new Canadians and international students make the adjustment to living and learning in an English speaking environment. At present, seven high schools and more than 60 elementary schools offer ESL classes in their schools.

Homestay: In order to be successful in school, it is important that a student have a safe, caring, and comfortable home life. The goal of our homestay program therefore is to provide students with a home away from home by placing them with families who provide a friendly nurturing and supportive environment, are prepared to share their lifestyle and culture with others, and who recognize that homestay is an opportunity for people of different languages and cultures to live and learn together. Each of our host families is visited and interviewed by our Homestay Coordinator and their background is checked by the local police.

Students have the opportunity to participate in both intramural and interscholastic sports, some of which include volleyball, floor hockey, soccer, badminton, basketball, rugby, football, track and field, and ping pong. All schools have a gymnasium and outdoor athletic grounds.

The following is a list of some of the clubs and activity groups international students can become involved in: computer, chess, drama, fitness, outdoor adventure, ski, photography, band, library, and ESL. Participation in one or more of these activities enriches the school experience and enables students to make new friendships.

All of our 145 schools are computer networked and each school provides students with access to computer technology and software.

Students may join the a variety of different cultural groups like the many different bands, choirs, or drama clubs.

School tours can be arranged at the request of a student or parent.