Services

The International Student & Family Center provides a broad array of services:

  • Testing, placement and orientation of new students in cooperation with the Family Resource Center.
  • Ongoing monitoring and support of students' academic progress and adjustment to life in the United States.
  • Informational programs and evening classes for international families.z
  • After school study skills classes in math, ESL, preparation for MCAS, SAT, ELL, and TOEFL testing.


Services for Families

Experience proves that active, successful students have families that also involve themselves in school life. One of our most important functions is to encourage international families to participate fully in the CRLS experience. We explain school policies and programs to parents and guardians. By discussing with them their right to be active partners, we encourage their involvement in their children's education.

Our staff arranges meetings for family members with school officials, and provides translation services. The International Center also sponsors monthly seminars for parents on subjects of interest such as becoming part of an American public school, reading report cards, the college application process, financial aid, immigration law, the challenges of raising children in the United States, and summer work and study opportunities. A full calendar of events is available. Evening courses in English as a Second Language and Computer Skills are offered by the International Center through the Amistad Program to the families of our students from 7:00-8:30pm.

Work with Community Groups and Agencies The International Center works in close partnership with community agencies and volunteers to enrich opportunities for students and families. Our partners include Cambridge Community Services, Cambridge Youth Guidance, Cambridge School Volunteers and SAMTA (South Asian Mentoring & Tutoring Association).


Services for Students


From their first day at CRLS through graduation, international students and their families have a home at the International Center. They come for initial testing, placement and orientation. We introduce them to their guidance counselors, teachers and school administrators; give them a tour of the school; explain rules and procedures; and tell them about school services, programs, clubs, and sports. As they become part of the CRLS community, international students continue to frequent the Center. Many come after school for help with homework or personal problems, to meet their friends, and use the computers.

Many also take advantage of after school study support offered through the Amistad Study Skills Program. After school classes (2:45 - 4:00) teach study skills in English, Math, Science and preparation for important tests including MCAS, SAT, ELPT and TOEFL.

Through our cooperative work with guidance counselors, teachers and administrators we monitor closely students' attendance, academic progress, and adjustment to life at school and in the community. Our staff provides academic and personal support to students both during and after school. Our monthly community meeting and weekly advising program provide a sense of belonging and personal growth as students adapt to life at CRLS.

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