7th GRADE, A YEAR OF TRANSITION.

     Ah, the first day of school.  It is a day that is universally praised by parents and loathed by students.  It is the day that we say goodbye to the freedom of summer and hello to the routine and structure that dominates our lives for 9 months out of the year.  The first day of high school can be a scary day whether you are a 7^th grader or a senior.  All students start the year facing some degree of the unknown.  For the new 7^th grade students it is a transition year from the format of the Elementary school.  Gone are the days of spending hour upon hour in one class with one teacher.  7^th graders are now switching classes every hour and having to keep track of their books, supplies, and assignments between several classrooms and a locker.  It can seem overwhelming.  Here is some simple advice to help make the year a successful one:

1.       Use a planner.  The school provides planners free of charge to our 7^th grade students, use them.  It can be difficult to keep track of assignments and due dates across 7 different classes.  The planner is designed to help you stay organized.

2.       Get involved in something.  Research shows that students who are involved in an extra-curricular activity have a better high school experience.  I know not everyone is an athlete, but there are other activities such as student council, class officer, band, and academic team that offer students a chance to get involved in our school.  Only by trying all of these things out can you find where you best fit.

3.       Don’t be afraid to speak up.  High school can be intimidating; don’t let fear keep you from voicing any questions or concerns.  If you need help with something, let a fellow student or a teacher know.  If you need to know how something works, or where something is located don’t hesitate to ask.

Of course, every student will face some ups and downs throughout the school year, but by following the advice above we can try to minimize some of the anxiety of new students.