When we arrived in Canada, some people who came before us advised us to prepare ahead so we could enroll our kids in a Catholic school.
The idea sounded perfect, faith-based, welcoming, and a safe space for newcomer children.

While we were in the GTA, we enrolled our kids in a Catholic school. But not long after, complaints started coming home one issue after another.

What really broke my heart was my second son. He’s very social, vocal, and loves people yet he began losing interest in going to school. That was unlike him. I had to speak with the principal, and thankfully, the situation was addressed.

Fast forward to the following year, we moved to Ottawa. The closest Catholic school was far from our home, so we enrolled the kids in a public school instead.

And wow the difference was clear.
Since starting school here, they absolutely love it the teachers, the students, the environment.
No complaints. No stress. Just happiness.

That’s when it dawned on me:
environment matters a lot. Sometimes, it’s not the system, the school type, or the label, it’s the environment, people, and atmosphere that make all the difference.

Have you experienced a change that made you realize environment really matters?