Rite of Passage for Parents

As the summer comes to a close, families begin the transition back to school. At Francis Howell Middle one rite of passage is our Summer Survival Series. For one evening, parents of incoming 6^th grade students meet with both administrators and parent leaders. We hold a Question and Answer Session where topics include: Academic expectations, homework guidelines, BYOD, inter-grade level grouping for lunch and Character Connection Class, the middle school model, lunch, lockers, and extra-curricular activities. This event affords our parents the opportunity to learn more about our school culture, climate, and expectations. This informal venue allows for greater parent participation. Helping parents transition to middle school is just as important as helping their children move from 5^th to 6^th grade.

There are four keys to a successful parent transition meeting:

·         Remain transparent in answering questions and with all interactions,

·         Encourage parents to take an active role during the middle level years (which includes volunteering and even having lunch with their child),

·         Provide relevant resources,

·         Reiterate the rigor and relevance of the academic curriculum.

This time with our incoming parents is priceless. It provides an opportunity for the school leadership team to meet with and get to know our new parents. It also allows the parents to take an evening to meet and discuss important topics regarding middle school “life”. Together we now prepare to take the final steps in getting ready for the start of the new school year!