Ottawa community prepares for back-to-school season

As the new school year begins in Ottawa, local officials and school boards are addressing community needs and student safety. Member of Parliament Yasir Naqvi highlighted federal support for families, noting that the Canada Child Benefit and the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit have seen increases to help manage rising costs.

Naqvi also raised concerns regarding digital safety, citing a significant rise in online child sexual exploitation reported by police services and the prevalence of cyberbullying among youth aged 12 to 17.

Simultaneously, the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) welcomed students to the 2026–2027 academic year. CEO Mary Donaghy and the board of trustees emphasized a theme of nourishing new beginnings and fostering a sense of belonging within the school community.