TRANSITIONING TO MIDDLE SCHOOL

Middle School can be a challenging time for students. Counselors are here to assist with this time of transition. Students are changing from having one teacher in elementary to balancing the demands of six different teachers. In addition, emotions may be heightened due to the hormonal changes associated with puberty. Adolescence is also when students strive for more independence and place a higher value on peer relationships. It is essential to maintain open communication and get to know your child’s friends. Students are welcome to come and speak with their counselor regarding personal issues. Counselors will maintain confidentiality unless the student states one of the following: they are going to or have hurt themselves, someone is hurting them, or they are planning to hurt someone. Depending on the issue, a counselor may refer a student to outside therapy when needed. In meeting with students, our focus is to foster the development of our students by encouraging them to:

• take responsibility for their actions

• develop problem-solving and decision-making skills

• self-advocacy

• goal setting

• making positive choices

• develop an awareness of post-secondary options, including career exploration

• learning to balance academics with social and extracurricular responsibilities

• foster a positive attitude towards self and others

• learning respect and tolerance

• manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns in the school setting