The Middle School Experience

2026-2027

Videos about the middle school experience

Watch the videos below to learn about some of the differences between elementary school and middle school. It's not just about academics. It's also about exploring interests, developing new friendships, and learning how be successful.

Part 1:

Fears and Favorites

Part 2:

The School Day

Part 3:

Friends and Activities

Are you Middle School Ready?

Moving On to Middle School_Title1.avi

Moving On to Middle School

This video shares some information about the differences between elementary and middle school? What do you think is the most important advice from these kids? Who do they rely on for help? What changes or challenges did they experience?

Academics, Grades, and Progress Reports

Your middle school Report Card is very different from the elementary school Progress Report.

How many differences can you see?

The middle school report card has less detail than the elementary progress report.
You will earn grades of A, B, C, D, and F instead of progress values of 4, 3, 2, 1.
You will get a GPA which stands for Grade Point Average. It is the average value of your subject grades for a marking period. You will earn Honor Roll if you have a GPA of 3.5.
There is not a Social Skills and Work Habits section.
Your homework, assignments, and tests all count towards your grades, and will reflect your work habits.

Schedules

A big change is from elementary to middle school is switching classes. Usually students enjoy this a lot, after they get used to it. Sometimes it's difficult to remember which class you go to next and where it is. The teachers will help you with this, so do not worry! Keep a copy of your schedule with you. Below are examples of your academic schedule, and an example of the "bell schedule." The bells will tell you when one period is ending and that it is time to switch classes.

Student Class Schedule

Sample School Period and Bell Schedule

Lockers and Locks

Your homeroom teachers will help you learn how to use your lockers and the combination lock. Try not to worry about this. Everyone is learning just like you. Your teachers assign you a locker and give you your combination. Write it down in several places and memorize it. If you do forget it, don't stress. The school will have a master list and be able to help. Remember! This locker is your locker. You are responsible for what it contains. Do not share your locker or combination with any other students.

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