February 12, 2026 — Garrett Middle School was filled with energy, music, and conversation as families gathered for the school’s second International Family Night. The event, held on campus in Austell, reflected something simple but powerful: when schools bring people together, meaningful connections follow.
“This is my seventh year here,” said Principal Kristie Brown as she welcomed families, students, and guests. “And I am very proud of our students, our staff, and our families who have come out tonight for our second annual event.”
International Family Night began as an idea rooted in leadership and trust. Brown shared that Physical Science teacher Gregory George helped turn the vision into reality after a conversation about what the school community needed most.
“She came to me and said, ‘Mr. George, remember when we interviewed, you said you’d be a leader,” George said. “So I said, okay, what do you need?” What the school needed, they agreed, was an opportunity for families to gather, learn about one another, and celebrate what makes Garrett such a special place.
For George, the night was about more than displays or performances. It was about helping students and families feel seen and valued.
“Everybody has their own culture. Everybody has their own background,” he said. “This is a night to express who you are, take pride in where you come from, and share that with other people. You find out how many similarities you have with others because we’re more alike than we are different.”
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That message resonated throughout the evening. Families moved from table to table, sampling food, watching student performances, and talking with staff members who know their children well. Laughter echoed through the cafeteria as students proudly showed parents where they spend their school days. The night truly lived up to its name. Students and teachers shared traditions through music, dance, and storytelling.
One highlight, George noted, was watching a Scottish dance led by teacher Ms. Fant and performed alongside students.
“That’s one of the greatest parts of this event,” he said. “Once you share something you love, other people find a place for themselves in it, too.”
International Family Night also showcased the strong partnerships that support Garrett Middle School year-round. Brown thanked community partners who showed up to connect with families, including the Austell Police Department and the local fire department. Student groups and staff sponsors from the band, orchestra, and chorus also played a role in making the evening welcoming and memorable. Local businesses were part of the celebration as well. Mexico Lindo, a staple in the Austell community, donated food for the event and continues to support the school in meaningful ways.
“Whenever they do something at the school, they always give back,” George shared. “Supporting local businesses that support our schools matters.”
Events like International Family Night reflect Cobb Schools’ commitment to strong family engagement and community connection. When families feel welcome and included, students benefit both academically and socially. They see their school as a place where adults work together, celebrate effort, and care deeply about their growth. For Garrett Middle School, the success of the evening was measured not just by attendance but also by the atmosphere. Students smiled a little wider. Parents lingered a little longer. Conversations carried on even as the night wound down. And that sense of belonging is exactly what the school hopes families take with them.
“This is what community looks like,” Brown said. “And we are grateful to everyone who helped make it happen.”
