HELPING YOUR CHILD WITH THE TRANSITION TO MIDDLE SCHOOL
It's a time filled with promise and anticipation:
Middle school students experience all sorts of opportunities and challenges. Middle school students experience unique developmental characteristics in all areas of their lives.

Physical
Social
Intellectual
Psychological

For a closer look at the characteristics relating to the above areas, click here. Important: Once the page has opened, click “Slide Show” at the bottom right of the screen. This will allow you to see it in a full screen.

YOU CAN HELP MAKE THE TRANSITION A SUCCESS
Getting off to a good start in middle school can set the stage for future success in:

High School
College or other advanced education or training
Career pursuits
Life!

Your child will need your support and attention, he/she will also look to you for plenty of:
Information
Guidance
Love and understanding

MOST STUDENTS ARE AT LEAST A LITTLE CONCERNED ABOUT STARTING MIDDLE SCHOOL
The Building
Your child may wonder about getting around in a large, unfamiliar building or finding people to eat with in a large cafeteria.

The Teachers
Middle school students work with a team of Core teachers. They may have 4 or more teachers every day.

The other students
Your child will encounter many new faces. A lot of these students will be older. Many may be:

From other neighborhoods and elementary schools
From different cultures and backgrounds.


Academics
Middle school often means more homework and more challenging projects, reports, and tests. Students may be expected to take a wide variety of classes, from advanced courses to world languages.

Friendships
It's common for new middle school students to be concerned about:

Making new friends
Being apart from elementary school friends
Being left out if old friends move on to new friends.

YOU CAN HELP YOUR CHILD DEAL WITH NEW CHALLENGES!

Ask questions.
What are you most excited about?
What are you most worried about?
How can I help most?

Listen closely.
Listen for unstated feelings.
Be ready to talk when your child needs/wants to talk.

Highlight the positives!
More independence
Greater opportunities
Feeling and acting more like an adult

Ongoing School Activities
Class Field Trips
Instrumental and Vocal Music Concerts
Student Council

Programs and Services
Advanced Math and English Programs
Athletics Program
Bilingual/English as a Second Language
Counseling Services
Media Center Services
Student Assistance Program
Student Council