Transitioning from Elementary to Middle School

Transitioning to middle school can be a big leap for many students and parents.  With less support and a more challenging curriculum, planning ahead to ensure a successful transition is important.

Here is a list of things to do between the end of the school year and back to school in the fall:

1) Touch base with your child's current elementary school teacher to better understand their strengths and weaknesses heading into middle school.   Here is a list of 8 questions to ask your child's teacher before year-end.

2) Speak with your new middle school guidance counsellor to better understand the courses for the year ahead and what is expected of your child.

3) Review the curriculum.  Here is the Ontario curriculum for Grades 6, Grade 7 and Grade 8.

4) Avoid the Summer Slide with these tips.

5) Transitioning to a locker: practice using a combination lock

6) Visit the school in advance.  Most schools will have an orientation for new students during springtime.  However, some students need extra time to get comfortable with new surroundings.   Don't hesitate to contact your child's new school for additional tours.

7) Be proactive and communicate:  Unlike elementary school, your child's teacher will not communicate with you as often.  It is important as parents to be proactive and communicate with your child's teacher and school to ensure they are on track and you have no surprises at report card time.