The First Big Step: Starting School

What’s different: Children need to sit still, take turns, listen, work and play well with others.

What’s the same: Your attention and support are just as important and you should continue to make the most of all the time you have with your child.

It lets you know if your child can get extra help, if needed, before school starts

It’s required by law

When your child turns 3 years old, schedule an appointment for Early Childhood Screening: 651-632-3746

For a month-to-month guide to school readiness, check out Blast Off to Kindergarten

Makes learning easier

Makes the first few days in a new place less stressful

Makes this big step easier for your child and you

Visit school with your child before the first day at an open house or by setting up a meeting with the teacher

Talk positively with your child about school and what to expect; ask her what she is looking forward to doing at school

Moving from Elementary School to Middle Grades

What’s different: Multiple teachers and classes; more responsibility on the student; classes count to be on track for high school and college.

What’s the same: Families, students and teachers need to keep talking about how we can support each other.

Class assignments become harder and longer

Students take more classes with different teachers

Students are expected to be more responsible for themselves

Make sure your child has a planner to keep track of schedules and assignments; check it regularly

Make sure your child starts, updates and follows a Six Year Plan

Make sure your child has the supplies needed for each class

Students do better when they are ready on the first day

Students rely on other students and staff; we need to know and be connected to each other

Attend the Open House or Orientation

Make sure that your child is involved in extracurriculars and community service

Students who stay on track now will be able to do better in high school

Your support and encouragement can help your child get on track and stay on track through this critical time

Respond to communication from school as soon as you can

Let teachers know where your child is struggling and doing well

Ask questions if you don’t understand

Attend parent-teacher conferences or set up a phone conference

Entering High School

What’s different: Students take very different paths as they decide what they will do after high school; credits, grades and tests will determine what options students have.

What’s the same: Teachers and staff are here to help you and your student.

Every time a student misses school, it is harder to keep up and catch up

Too many absences will cause your child to fail a class

Pay attention to attendance; make sure your child is in school

If your child misses school, you will receive a call from the school to verify the absence and the absence will be posted on the Parent Portal

If you need help getting your child to go to school, ask the school for assistance

Certain classes and tests are critical to keep your child on track

Missing credits and tests will limit the options your child has for the future he wants

You may see things that others miss when your child needs more help or support

Attend parent-teacher conferences or set up a phone conference

Check the Parent Portal for missing assignments

If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s education, contact the school counselor, teacher or administrator

We can help your child catch up through summer school, evening school, and alternative programs; check the Program Directory or call your child’s school for more information

Start visiting college campuses so your family becomes familiar with the college experience

Look at the programs and resources in this guide for more information