5th Graders Empower Elementary Parents with Insights into Middle School Life

In an effort to ease the transition from elementary to middle school, Bell and Seven Bridges Middle Schools hosted “MS 101,” an event for incoming parents for both schools. The evening was organized to empower families with tips and suggestions for a successful transition to middle school. The presentation focused on how the schools and families can work together to support our students next year.

The highlight of MS 101 was the engaging panel discussions led by 5^th-grade veterans covering topics crucial to making a successful move to middle school. They shared their insights and personal experiences, sharing valuable information on everything from preparing for the first day of middle school to understanding the nuts and bolts of the daily schedule--including encore classes and the team teaching model, navigating lunch and recess, exploring after-school clubs and activities, managing homework expectations, accessing extra help and support, fostering friendships, and much more. In addition, administrators, school counselors, and PTA representatives contributed their expertise, collectively offering guidance and reassurance to those in attendance. (continued below)

"As educators, we recognize the significance of nurturing the well-being of students during this transitional phase," said Geoff Curtis, Principal of Robert E. Bell Middle School. "We are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, and we hope parents left MS 101 feeling a bit more informed and a bit more comfortable about having a future middle-schooler!"

Seven Bridges Middle School Principal Dr. Joe Mazza thanked the building PTAs for their support and collaboration on this event. Seven Bridges Middle School PTA Vice Chair, Paula Backer shared, “The parents absolutely love getting to connect with current 5th grade students at the MS 101 event. Getting to engage directly with a panel of 5^th-graders who just lived through the transition themselves, brings a lot of comfort and even excitement to parents.”

Looking ahead, 5^th-graders will visit 4^th-grade classrooms this June to engage in discussions about all things middle school, and then 4^th-graders will have an opportunity to tour their middle school to get an in-depth look at their future academic learning environment. The Bell and Seven Bridges faculty and staff are excited to welcome their new students next year and for a successful transition to middle school.