1. Middle School Success Tips Know what to expect

2. In middle school students can expect: More teachers, new friends, lockers to maintain More independence and more responsibility More activities and athletic programs

3. More teachers, new friends, lockers to maintain Encourage your child to adapt to different teaching styles and personalities with a positive attitude Encourage your child to listen to announcements every morning to hear about club and team meetings Clean lockers make organization much easier, ask about his/her locker

4. More independence and more responsibility Use the assignment notebook every period every day Plan to have homework every night Have a dedicated place/time to study at home Keep lockers & backpacks neat Follow teachers’ expectations Check grades regularly

5. More activities and athletic programs Students who are involved in school activities tend to like school more and get better grades Getting involved helps students develop new skills, make new friends, gain confidence, relieve stress Pick at least one sport or activity here at TJMS to be a part of

6. 6 th grade sports/clubs Cross Country Games Club Choir, Band, Orchestra Spell Bowl Team Science Olympiad Track JefferSun-student newpaper Yearbook Builder’s Club Polar Bear Club Intramural sports Student Council Drama Club Wrestling Gymnastics Media Club Check our website for more specific information for each activity

7. All VCS 6 th & 7 th graders included High School Mentors trained to present pro- social skills lessons once per month 8 th grade TJMS students can join Team Peace to promote a positive climate at TJ

8. TJMS Guidance Counselors Last Names A-L Mrs. Carlson Last Names M-Z Mrs. Kleist Guidance Counselors provide academic, personal, and career counseling for students and are available to discuss student issues with parents. Students can sign in after lunch at the guidance office and a counselor will send a pass to see them. At other times during the day, students must have a pass from their teacher to see a counselor.