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WELCOME BACK to a brand-new school year! We hope you had a wonderful summer filled with rest, relaxation, and quality family time. As the leaves start to change and the school bells ring once again, it's time to dive into another exciting academic year.
In this this September/October newsletter, we'll focus on helping our students transition smoothly into the new school year, tackle the challenges they might face, and ensure they make the most out of their middle/high school experience.
Middle School News
The "Now-That-I-Have-My-Schedule" Tours held on August 22nd provided students and their families with helpful information to support their transition to middle school. Thank you to all the families who attended. In addition, there were approximately 20 new enrollments who we welcomed into our district.
Many of the 8th grade students had questions about the changes in their schedules particularly around the 5 block schedule and having four major academic (instead of three) courses along with quarter-long Unified Arts. Some students have begun to inquire about the Technical High School application process.
Students living in Worcester County can visit Monty Tech on October 23rd for their Career Awareness Night. The application is available on their website and can be picked up in Student Services. Completed applications are returned to the 8th grade Guidance Counselor. Interviews will be scheduled in February.
Students living in Franklin County who are interested in applying can do so on their website, fcts.us, when their online application is available. They will be offering an open house to interested students and families on the evening of Decmber 2nd. Please reach out to Franklin Tech for more information.
4 Steps To A Smooth Transition Into Middle School
4 Steps To A Smooth Transition Into Middle School
Getting back into the school routine can be a bit challenging after a long summer break. Here are some steps to ensure a smooth transition into Middle School
1. Transitioning Back to School
Establish a Routine: Set a regular bedtime and morning routine to help your child adjust to the school schedule gradually.
Organize Supplies: Ensure your child has all the necessary school supplies and textbooks. A well-organized backpack can make a big difference.
Open Communication: Encourage your child to share their feelings and concerns about returning to school. Listening and empathizing can alleviate anxiety.
2. Navigating Peer Pressure
School often introduces students to new social dynamics and peer pressure. It's crucial to talk to your child about making wise choices.
Open Dialogue: Encourage open and honest discussions about peer pressure and the importance of making independent decisions.
Choosing Friends Wisely: Emphasize the significance of surrounding themselves with positive and supportive friends.
Self-Confidence: Boost their self-esteem and confidence, so they can confidently say no when necessary.
3. Mental Health Matters
Middle school can be emotionally challenging. Make sure your child knows it's okay to seek help when needed:
Listen Actively: Pay attention to changes in your child's behavior and emotions. Don't hesitate to reach out to teachers or counselors if you have concerns.
Encourage Self-Care: Teach your child about the importance of self-care, including relaxation techniques, deep breathing exercises, and hobbies they enjoy.
Access Resources: Familiarize yourself with the school's counseling services and let your child know how to access them.
4. Building Healthy Study Habits
Middle school is an important time to develop strong study habits. Help your child establish these practices early on:
Designated Study Space: Create a quiet and organized space for homework and studying.
Time Management: Teach them how to manage their time effectively by setting aside specific blocks for homework, extracurricular activities, and downtime.
Stay Organized: Use planners or digital tools to keep track of assignments, tests, and projects.
High School News and Announcements
A reminder to all AP students: You must register for your AP Exam(s) by Monday, November 13, 2023. You can do this by signing into your Collegeboard account and then joining your AP class section. You then need to select: Yes or NO, Order My Exam.
If you need help, please see Ms. Mahaney in Guidance.
A reminder to all Sophomores: Ms. Mahaney is currently meeting with all her Sophomores to get to know you! We will also review current grades and attendance, and explain graduation requirements and update your graduation audit form
A quick reminder to Juniors: Work hard this school year! Junior year is a very important year if you plan on applying to four year colleges. This will be the most recent set of grades they will have on you, so MAKE THEM COUNT!
Please see the ASVAB military entrance exam sign up information below regarding the upcoming November 7th test date for interested juniors and seniors!
College bound juniors can get a head start on their college search by using the Big Future College Board website to take a college interest "quiz" or to do a full college search: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search/college-quiz
PSATs were held for interested Juniors on Wednesday, October 13th!
We have been meeting with many seniors over the past several weeks to settle schedules, work on 35 Hour School To Work graduation requirement plans and paperwork, and doing one to one senior meetings for post secondary planning.
Below please see our listing of recent events and upcoming opportunities for seniors:
Common Application Headstart Camp: August 21st. A group of very motivated seniors came in on their summer day off to get a solid start on their college applications.
Our Senior Post Secondary Planning Workshop was recently completed in Health classes, and it was packed with information about the college application process, taking the ASVAB for military bound students, and resources for students planning to go directly to work! Workshop slides were sent out to students, parents and guardians via email.
Upcoming Events:
Interested in taking the November or December SAT? For sign up deadlines and the registration link, please visit: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration/dates-deadlines
Every Tuesday, MA Hire appointments are available for seniors interested in pursuing training in the trades including plumbing, electrical and advanced manufacturing! Please email Ms. McKenna for a release form to meet with Laura Robinson if interested.
Environmental Career Field Trip, October 13th: Students enrolled in a fall Chemistry course or in AP Environmental Science have been invited to attend an environmental career exploratory field trip to the Quabbin DCR Visitor Center and to Birch Hill Dam.
College Application Days, October 26th and 27th! A representative from Mount Wachusett Community College will be visiting the senior health classes with Student Services to help every senior have the experience of applying to college. Whether seniors plan to go to the Mount as their first choice, or whether community college is a safety net plan for you, this experience will help everyone have at least one door open into the future.
ASVAB exam, November 7th in the Mahar Library: Planning to go into the military? Get a head start by taking the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery this fall! Permission slips Coming out in October!
College Financial Aid Updates: The FAFSA (the main application for federal student aid) will become available in December of 2023 (rather than October) due to several updates being done. Many private colleges use the PROFILE as well as the FAFSA (check to see on the individual college financial aid webpages to be sure), so you can get a head start by starting the PROFILE, if applicable.
Additionally, keep an eye on attendance this year- remember the semester caps of 4 days for every other day classes and 9 days for every day classes!
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