For many families, buying a home in Canada means more than putting down roots—it's a strategic step toward securing quality education for their children. Public schools in most provinces use a school zone (or attendance boundary) system, which requires students to attend the school assigned to their residential address.

School zones are drawn by local school boards based on geography, population, and school capacity, and are updated regularly. While some regions offer limited "out-of-boundary" admission options, local students always receive priority. That's why understanding which school a property is zoned for is essential during the home-buying process.

So how do you find the right public school for your child? This guide outlines the most important factors to consider—helping families make informed decisions where education and housing go hand in hand.

1. Academic Quality and School Performance: Core Measures of School Reputation

Academic performance remains one of the most important criteria for Canadian families when evaluating a school. In Ontario, two widely recognized sources help families assess school quality:

EQAO Assessments

The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO website) conducts standardized assessments in reading, writing, and math across the province. Parents can view each school's historical EQAO results on the official website to evaluate academic performance and tailor support based on their child's needs.

Fraser Institute Rankings

The Fraser Rankings releases annual reports ranking schools based on EQAO test scores. Each school receives a rating from 0 to 10 and additional data points such as performance trends, test participation rates, and ESL student percentages. This makes it easier for parents to compare schools and understand their academic environment.

2. Teaching Staff: The Backbone of High-Quality Education

Behind every successful school is a team of qualified teachers. In Ontario, all public school teachers must be certified by the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). They are required to hold an accredited education degree and participate in ongoing professional development.

That said, staffing shortages are becoming a growing concern. In 2024, Ontario's Elementary Teachers' Federation (ETFO) warned that some schools were relying on temporary hires who did not fully meet credentialing standards. As a result, it's wise for parents to check not just teacher qualifications but also staff stability—both of which can be verified through the OCT website.

3. French Language Programs: A Key Differentiator Among Schools

French is one of Canada's official languages and plays a central role in K–12 education. However, the types and depth of French programs vary greatly between school boards—and even between schools in the same board.

For instance, in Ottawa:

a. The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) offers three levels of French: Core French, Extended French, and French Immersion—but not every school provides all options.

b. The Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) offers a more unified French instruction path, emphasizing gradual, consistent language development.

💡 Tip: If you'd like to dive deeper into how French programs are structured across Ottawa's elementary and secondary schools, check out our feature article: "Don't Miss Out on the Bilingual Advantage: Your Guide to French Programs in Ottawa Schools."

Therefore, for families who prioritize French education, it is strongly recommended to pay close attention to the French programs offered within the target school zone when selecting a home and school. Understanding the specific course structures and available support resources in advance will help ensure that children are well-prepared for personalized growth and future success.

Recommendations

In Canada, where you live often determines where your child learns. That's why choosing a home and choosing a school should be done together.

When evaluating a home purchase, families should also assess local schools based on:

a. Academic performance

b. Staff qualifications and stability

c. French Language program offerings

By planning with education in mind, families can create the best foundation for both a nurturing home life and long-term student success.