GCPS International Newcomer Center 

     The International Newcomer Center (INC) is the first point of contact in Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) for newly arriving international families with middle and high school students and the source for language services for the school district. By providing support services to middle and high school students, families, and schools, the INC works to ensure the transition to the district’s schools is smooth, inspiring high levels of learning and engagement.  

     International Student Advisors (ISAs) meet with students and families to better understand their academic background and future interests. They screen students for proficiency levels in English, language arts, and mathematics. Appropriate course placement and transcript analysis help ensure these students get and stay on track for graduation.

 

Who needs to come to the International Newcomer Center? 

Students (age appropriate) in grades 6-12 who are transferring to GCPS from another country and whose primary language is not English should visit the INC before registering at their local school. Families should follow the following steps:

 

Step 1: Gather the Documents 

     For the complete list of required documents, visit https://www.gcpsk12.org/schools/elementary-education-and-student-support/about-the-international-newcomer-center/international-student-services 

 

Step 2: Make an Appointment  

Call or visit the INC

Phone: 678-985-5200

Address: 495 Maltbie Street, in Lawrenceville.

 

Hours of operation:

• Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

 

Language Services

The INC provides interpretation services to ensure meaningful communication and equal participation of multilingual families in GCPS schools. The district offers different meeting formats to address schools’ needs and provide families flexibility. To request an interpreter, contact your local school. 

 

Parent Outreach 

The INC offers classes for newcomer families throughout the year. There are two major initiatives/classes offered to newcomer families: 

• Literacy Classes (English Classes)— free English literacy classes are offered every week each semester for parents and guardians of GCPS students.
  • Registration for the 2024-2025 school year (SY) will be held at the INC on Wednesday, September 4, and Thursday, September 5, anytime between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. No appointment is necessary to register.

 

• Newcomer Academy— The Newcomer Academy guides newcomer families through the ins and outs of Gwinnett County Public Schools. The academy comprises a series of informative sessions on School Culture and Navigating the School System, GCPS Family Resources, Community Resources, and Rights and Responsibilities. The goal of the Newcomer Academy is for families to develop a greater understanding of the processes associated with GCPS resources. These workshops are taught in Vietnamese, Chinese, and Korean at the International Newcomer Center. Spanish workshops will be offered at various schools in the district. For more information, please visit the GCPS website or contact the International Newcomer Center at 678-985-5200.