Tips on the First Day of Middle School
Starting at a new school is scary, especially for children who have known only their elementary school. Some kids are ready for the change and excited to learn the ropes at a new school, while others might be nervous to leave behind the familiarity of primary school. In middle school, the school day's structure changes and the expectations of students increase. Be aware of and prepare for these changes to ease the transition into middle school.
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Attend Orientation
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The first day of middle school can be very confusing. In elementary school, most children have one teacher throughout the day and might move as a group to art or gym class. In middle school, you might have as many as nine different teachers in different classrooms during the day. Attend orientation to learn your way around the school. You might still get lost a few times once the school year begins, but at least you will be more likely to find your way. Pay special attention to how to get to your homeroom and your locker so you feel confident when you arrive on the first day.
Get Supplies Early
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To help ease your nerves, have your parents take you for school supplies early. With so many different classes and teachers, you will need to stay organized. Get an assignment book with plenty of space for writing homework assignments and keep a special folder for each class so you can keep the paperwork straight. If you get your supplies ahead of time, you won't worry about having everything the night before class starts.
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The Night Before
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Organize your book bag the night before classes begin. Choose an outfit that you will feel confident in if your school does not require uniforms. Lay your clothes out for the morning. Go to bed early so you are well-rested and have plenty of time to get a good night's sleep if your first-day jitters keep you awake. Plan a first-day breakfast with your parents the night before so you are sure to get a nutritious, energizing meal before you leave.
Lunchtime Plan
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Find out ahead of time what the school lunch menu is for the first day of class. Many schools send the menu for the first month of school over the summer. Discuss with your parents if you will eat the school lunch or would prefer to pack one. Make a plan with your friends for where to meet or where you will sit. It can be scary to walk into a new cafeteria and a sea of unfamiliar faces. If you know where to meet your friends, you can catch up about what everyone did over summer vacation and avoid feeling out of place on your first lunch period.
Write Things Down
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Students receive a lot of new information on the first day of middle school. In the midst of all of your excitement, remember to write things down. The homeroom teacher will probably give rules for the new school. You might get a locker with a combination -- write down your locker combination in a safe place, like inside a folder or your assignment book. You might not remember much of what you heard on the first day, but if you take good notes, you can look over them when you get home to remind yourself.
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References
- Photo Credit school lockers image by david hughes from Fotolia.com
