Getting Ready for Middle School

A Student & Family Checklist

Middle school is an exciting new chapter! It is normal to feel excited, nervous, or a little unsure about what to expect. Use this checklist to help you feel prepared and confident.

Get to Know Your School

• Visit the school before the first day, if possible.

• Find your classrooms, cafeteria, gym, library, nurse, and main office.

• Learn where to go if you need help.

• Practice your route to and from school.

• Learn your school’s bell schedule and daily routines.

• Know how to contact your school counselor.

Get Organized

• Learn how to use your school planner or digital calendar.

• Practice writing down assignments and important dates.

• Organize your backpack and school materials.

• Learn how to use your student portal or learning platform.

• Set up a regular place at home to complete homework.

• Develop a routine for checking assignments each day.

Build Good Habits

• Practice getting up and getting ready on time.

• Get into a consistent bedtime routine.

• Eat breakfast and bring what you need for the school day.

• Pack your backpack the night before.

• Set an alarm and learn how to manage your morning routine.

 Be Ready to Learn

• Ask questions when you don't understand something.

• Learn how to ask a teacher for help.

• Break large assignments into smaller steps.

• Find a study strategy that works for you.

• Remember that making mistakes is part of learning.

• Speak up if you are struggling academically.

 Make Friends & Build Relationships

• Introduce yourself to someone new.

• Be welcoming to students who may be new or alone.

• Look for clubs, activities, or sports that interest you.

• Remember that friendships can change during middle school.

• Choose friends who treat you with respect.

• Ask an adult for help if you are experiencing bullying or ongoing conflict.

 Take Care of Your Mental & Emotional Health

• Learn to recognize when you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

• Identify 2–3 healthy coping strategies that work for you.

• Take a break when you need one, following school expectations.

• Talk to a trusted adult when something is bothering you.

• Remember that asking for help is a strength.

• Give yourself time to adjust—everything does not have to feel comfortable right away.

 Be Smart Online

• Think before you post, comment, or send a message.

• Protect your passwords and personal information.

• Treat others online with the same respect you would show them in person.

• Don't participate in group chats or posts that make you uncomfortable.

• Tell a trusted adult if something online becomes unsafe or overwhelming.

• Remember that social media does not show the whole picture of someone's life.

 Know Who Can Help

You do not have to solve every problem by yourself. Identify adults you can go to when you need support.

At school:
Your teacher • School counselor • Principal/Assistant Principal • School nurse • Trusted staff member

At home:
Parent/Guardian • Family member • Other trusted adult

Remember:

You don't have to know everything on the first day. Middle school is a time to learn, grow, make mistakes, meet new people, and discover what works best for you.

Be curious. Be kind. Ask for help. Give yourself time to adjust.