<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd“>
The Challenges of Transitioning to High School
“I’m in with the in crowd, I go where the in crowd goes”
“The ‘In’ Crowd,” Dobie Gray; lyrics by Billy Page
By Karyn Brodsky
The shift from middle school to high school is often filled with emotional ups and downs, along with academic challenges. Students not only have to manage their new class schedules and increased homework, but they also grapple with figuring out their social standing and seek validation from peers. During this crucial time of transition, the balancing act between the desire to fit in and maintaining academic focus can be tricky. Support from teachers, school counselors, and family can play a pivotal role in navigating this balance.
Preparing Teens for High School
“We regularly hold meetings to guide parents in preparing their teens for the transition from middle school to high school,” says Paula Nickel, Director of Guidance Counseling at John Paul II High School in Plano. “The primary obstacle facing students is the heightened academic expectations: they must come prepared for class with all necessary materials, learn to manage their time effectively, and develop organizational skills to combat procrastination.”
The school recommends that parents maintain consistent communication with their teen’s teachers and counselors to track academic progress and address any potential challenges. “It’s normal for students to see a drop in their grades as they adjust to high school life, especially at the start,” explains Nickel. “If your child excelled as an A student in middle school, don’t be alarmed if their grades drop to a B+ or B; it reflects their adaptation to tougher standards and more demanding workloads.” However, Nickel emphasizes the importance of rapidly regaining their footing in terms of grades, as high school grades contribute significantly to college applications.
Orientation and Ongoing Support
Nickel mentions that John Paul II organizes an orientation specifically for students before the academic year begins, preparing them for what lies ahead. Additionally, every student participates in a one-semester seminar addressing key topics such as organization, prioritization, time management, bullying, self-advocacy, and community engagement.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
According to a piece in US News & World Report, here are three valuable strategies that can ease the transition to high school and enhance the likelihood of success:
- Conduct a school walk-through to reduce anxiety on the first day.
- Encourage your teen to participate in extracurricular activities, which can help forge new friendships, alleviate stress, and enhance engagement.
- As a parent, be available to listen and provide support and positive reinforcement to your student.
www.usnews.com/education/blogs/high-school-notes/2013/08/05/3-tips-to-help-your-teen-transition-to-high-school
