Georgia Middle School GuidanceMelissa Fisher, School Counselor
Welcome to the Middle School Guidance Webpage! Happy 2011!High School Transition TimeAt the start of a new year, many of us think about the changes we would like to make in our lives - whether resolving to be healthier or maybe hoping to spend more time with our loved ones. This is a time for change for our 8th graders as well. As they near the halfway point of their final year at GEMS, they must now begin to think and plan for the change from middle school to high school. This can be an exciting and yet overwhelming time for 8th graders and their parents. To begin this transition, their will be a High School Fair at GEMS on January 26th. This is an opportunity for students and parents to "shop around" and hear what area high schools have to offer. A letter will be mailed to all 8th grade students and families regarding this event along with other important information regarding the transition to high school. Please check out the high school transition page on this website for information as well, including links to some high schools. As always, parents are welcome to contact me with any questions they may have. You may call, email or set-up a time to speak with me at school.
What's New in 5th & 6th Grade Guidance
While talking with students about bullying in guidance class, it has come to my attention in the last couple of years that many students are asking questions related to bullying through technology. What students are referring to is called cyberbullying. This form of bullying is occurring most often while they are on social networking sites (i.e. Facebook or MySpace) or while texting peers on their cellphone. Because of this, I have added lessons to the Guidance curriculum in which we will have a chance to learn what cyberbullying is, what to do about it, and how to be safe while using technology. Although not all students may use or have access to these forms of technology, it is clear that a majority of the students do (sometimes with or without parent knowledge). A great resource tool for parents and students can be found at www.NetSmartz.com. The site was created by the Center for Missing and Exploited Children. I would encourage parents who may be unfamiliar with the dangers of internet use and text messaging to visit this site. As part of our lessons, students will be sent home with a contract for online safety. Certainly the contract can be adapted to fit your family needs, and if anything, could be a valuable resource for a discussion on internet safety.
Last updated on 10/25/10 |