It's back to school time! What a week! The BMS Counseling Department has been busy this week with registrations, schedule changes, teaching a new class, and lots more! We're all very excited to welcome a new sixth grade class and eager to catch up with all those students we got to know last year. As excited as we are, the transition back to school can be stressful. About 50 million students in the US are returning to school this fall, and all of them are wondering how this school year is going to go. So are we! Fortunately, with good attitudes and a little effort, we can all make sure the 2015-2016 school year at Brookland Middle School is a success! Here are some tips to help start students off on track this school year: |
All students are required to bring their agenda to BMS every day. Not only is that their pass to the bathroom, library, other classrooms, etc during the day, but it also helps students stay organized. It's harder to forget to do your math homework when you write it down!
2) Communicate!
This is important for both students and parents. Students can have 6, 7 or even 8 different teachers this school year and they all need to know how to best work with your student. Email is a great way to stay updated on your student's classroom activities, and grades are always on Powerschool! Furthermore, middle school is the perfect time to really build a student's independence - encourage them to talk to their teachers themselves. Ask questions in class, be honest when material is confusing, and let your teacher know if anything is going on outside of class that may impact your performance. They're here to help! Back to School Night is - what a great time to meet teachers face to face!
3) Create a Specific Study Space
Trying to do homework while distracted by the TV, cell phones, and other things can be frustrating and unhelpful. Keep the homework area focused on school work so that students stay on task. Be sure to have all required school supplies together and ready so students don't waste time trying to find what they need.
4) Talk to your counselors!
Just like teachers, we're here to help! Students can see us during the school day, and parents are always welcome to call or email. The school counselor’s role is to act as the first line of contact for parents and students for assistance in academic, social or personal development. When you need information or assistance, we can help you get in touch with the appropriate school officials; learn about school policies on behavior, attendance and dress; know the school calendar of important dates; and stay connected with the school in many other ways. We can also help you locate resources in the community when you need them.
There are lots of ways to start this year off right, and the counselors at BMS are excited to help! Best of luck, Cubs, we can't wait to see what you do this year!
Here are some other resources to help with Back to School:
- Seven Steps to Succeeding in Middle School - GreatKids Article
- Connecting With Your Child's School Counselor - American School Counselor Assoc. Article
- How to Create a Homework HQ - Parents.com Article
- Ten Ways to Help your Child Succeed in Middle School - KidsHealth Article
- Ten Good Study Habits for the New School Year - Sylvan Learning Article