Smoothing The Transition Between Middle School And High School

Smoothing the Transition between Middle School and High School Definition Why is it important to Students are more likely to fail the 9th grade than any other grade. smooth the transition Statistically, students who fail 9th grade have less than a 30 percent chance from middle school to of graduating high school. Many high schools are developing programs to high school? support freshman and help them avoid the low marks, failed courses, and high absenteeism that lead to retention and dropping out of school. These programs employ transition strategies that prepare students to meet the social and academic demands of high school.

How do transition programs differ from the “freshman orientation” at my high school?

Transition programs are much more comprehensive than a traditional “freshman orientation,” which varies in length, activities, and helpfulness to students. A typical freshman orientation might provide students and their parents with essential information about the high school, a chance to meet other students, and an opportunity to ask questions about and gain familiarity with the high school in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. While orientation usually lasts a few days or even less, transition programs are longer and more involved, beginning in the middle grades and continuing through the entire freshman year. These programs help students develop socially, behaviorally, and academically; prepare them to meet the demands of high school; and identify and offer supports to struggling students as they progress through 9th grade. A transition program also fundamentally changes the relationship between middle and high school, which work together to provide students a smooth transition experience by articulating and aligning their academic and behavioral expectations of students.

Schools that implement a comprehensive transition program may see one or more of the following benefits: 1) increased enthusiasm about attending school, 2) enhanced skill development, 3) increased self-esteem and sense of identity, 4) progress in guidance and counseling department goals, and 5) an increased number of students who successfully complete the 9th grade. Effective programs may increase attendance, GPA, and involvement in extracurricular activities and may lead to fewer disciplinary actions and a decline in truancy. They may also create healthier and more academically focused students.

What are the specific strategies for improving the transition from middle to high school?

Articulation and Alignment between Middle and High School

The transition between middle school and high school is less pronounced if middle and high school teachers and administrations work together to align courses, expectations of students, rules, and regulations. Some schools use transition teams made up of both middle school and high school teachers to ensure that schools are communicating efficiently. For more information on articulation and alignment between grades and schools, see P-16.

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