The first few days can be a LOT for a Newcomer student. They’re learning English while also figuring out a new school, new routines, and a whole new culture. I’ve found that the little things you can do to support a newcomer for their transition can make a huge difference.
Here are a few small, yet impactful things I do to support a newcomer:
1. Check Their Supplies & Set Up Their Chromebook
Either myself or the school counselor will share a school supply list with the students’ family when they first enroll their child, but I make sure they have everything they need on the first day of school. I will then work with the school social worker to get the student any additional school supplies they still need or can’t afford.
Additionally, I also like to set up the student’s Chromebook or device- ideally even before they start school. I bookmark important websites they’ll use regularly, like the school’s learning platform and Google Translate. I also help students come up with a simple password (usually their favorite color and age) for them to easily remember.
2. Reach Out to Their Teachers
I always try to give teachers a head-up that they will be gaining a new student- especially if they don’t speak English. I also communicate ahead of time what classes I will be pushing into or pulling the student out of for language support, as well as how the student will be graded- non-graded, pass/fail, traditional grades, etc.
3. Show Students (and Teachers!) How to Use Google Translate
Google Translate can be an incredibly helpful tool to support a newcomer, but making sure students know how to use it to enhance learning instead of a crutch is important!
I always take a few minutes to show students how to translate a conversation, use the camera to translate text on the board or in a worksheet, and use some of the other helpful features.
I also like to make sure their teachers know how these features work. That way, everyone is on the same page about using translation as a scaffold while students are developing their English skills.
Check out my blog on how to effectively use Google Translate in the classroom for tips!
4. Prepare a English Words and Phrases Survival Guide
This is one thing my middle school newcomers always appreciate—especially on their first day! It’s like my first day of school gift to them!
I give them a small booklet with common English words and phrases they’re likely to hear and use at school. It can include things like classroom commands, questions they may need to ask, and important school vocabulary.
Even better if you can provide it in their native language!
It gives students something they can refer back to when they’re not sure what someone is saying or when they need help communicating.
5. Give them a buddy
Having one friendly student to walk with them, sit with them at lunch, or answer simple questions can make school feel a lot less overwhelming. It also helps when their ‘buddy’ is in the same class or has a similar class schedule for secondary students.
You don’t need to find the most outgoing student in the school, either. Sometimes a kind, patient student who is willing to help is all they need.
A buddy can help with those little things that might otherwise feel intimidating—finding the bathroom, figuring out where to go for lunch, or knowing which hallway to take to their next class.
6. Support a Newcomer by Giving them time
It sounds cliché, but it’s true!
Some students will jump right in, while others need a little longer to feel comfortable. Remembering to be patient and encouraging can go a long way.
I always make a point to check on my newcomers several times throughout their first day. I want to make sure they know where they’re supposed to be, have what they need, and have someone they can go to if they’re confused.
And if I’m available, I also welcome them to come eat lunch in my room if they need a little mid-day break to decompress.
Sometimes, simply knowing there’s a safe and familiar place to go can make a big difference.
Most Importantly, Don’t Overcomplicate It
Welcoming a newcomer doesn’t have to be complicated or involve a million different activities.
I’ve learned that knowing how to support a newcomer is a little like exercising a muscle—the more you do it, the easier it gets.
Over time, you’ll figure out what works best for you, your school, and your students. And those small things that may not seem like a big deal to you can make a huge difference to a student who is trying to navigate an entirely new school and language.
A warm welcome, a little preparation, and someone they know they can count on can go a long way.
Make sure to grab our FREE Newcomer Resource Toolkit here! This pack includes charts, activities, and vocabulary cards that you can print and share with your newcomers on their very first day!
