Transitioning to Middle School

Who is our feeder middle school?

Benjamin Tasker Middle School


4901 Collington Road, Bowie, MD 20715 | Phone: 301-805-2660 | Fax: 301-805-2663

School Hours: 8:30 AM -- 3:10 PM


Preparing for Middle School

Copy of HowtoUnlockaLock.pdf

Practice opening a combination lock over the summer

You may purchase a combination lock at the Dollar Store to become familiar with using a lock. Students will be provided a locker with a combination for the school to store their materials. Learning how to use a lock will help decrease some anxieties during the first week of school.

Copy of BacktoSchoolMiddleSchoolOrganizationLockerPrintable.pdf

Visual Organizer for your locker

If you are one that likes having a visual of your daily routine , then you may enjoy this personal organizer that you can print and decorate yourself. This could be a fun project for you over the summer as you prepare for your first day!

The Benjamin Tasker school website has some frequently asked questions about what students and parents can expect. If you're not attending Tasker, check to see if your middle school has a similar page! It can also be helpful for parents to follow the school's social media pages for updates and information.

Parental Toolkit

For parents and students, the transition to middle school is a big one. This year, the transition from virtual or hybrid elementary school to middle school might seem even larger.

Below are tips for parents on helping their children navigate this important move!

Join the PTSO, and Know Your Child's Teachers

As students become more independent it can be easier for parents to find themselves disconnected from the school and their children's academic and social lives. While we encourage pre-teens learning independence, it's important that parents stay in the loop! Consider joining the middle school PTSO, and stay in contact with teachers and the school community. It can also be helpful for parents to follow the school's social media pages for updates and information.

Topics include:

  • Helping your child get oriented

  • Time management and organization

  • Understanding new school expectations

  • Navigating peer dynamics

Tips from the article include:

  • Encouraging self-advocacy

  • Allowing your teen to struggle

  • Encouraging positive risk-taking

  • Keeping your communication and connection strong

Read more about how to navigate:

  • Getting comfortable in a new school

  • Academics

  • Friendships and values