The 2011-2012 school year has started off much smoother than last year! It is Labor Day, and I thought I would write a few notes before the entire semester gets away from me. Being 8th grade counselor is my favorite middle school year. The students are finally maturing into semi-young adults, and don't do as many crazy, immature things as they did in 6th and 7th grade, but nevertheless, they are still middle schoolers, and crazy things will happen!
I have about 350 students in 8th grade, and I have targeted my "Top 25" to pursue vigorously this year. Not my top 25 in GPA rank, but in reality, the bottom 25 students who are either in danger of failing the 8th grade, or have behavior that would warrant out of school suspension or a trip to the Brownsburg Learning Center for the rest of the year.
I am going to make it a point to meet with them every 2 weeks to check in. We are going to make some goal sheets, and discuss their futures. For a visual reminder, I put a chart up on the wall with their initials, and dates spread out through the year so that I can check off each time I meet with them before the date listed. I think this system will help me stay on top of things, and I will be sure to make parent contact throughout the year also.
I hope they will be ready to enter high school with a chest full of self-confidence, and a determination to get good grades and graduate in the literal "Top 25" of their class! I will be sure to post a report in May!!
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