8th Grade

I finished the 2nd of 4 all-8th grade visits today. This time I went to al the Science classes. I talked about finishing up the 2nd quarter in a strong way. The quarter’s grades are averaged with 1st quarter to give a semester grade, and that latter grade is what is included on the academic transcript. I also talked about how 8th grade is really the beginning of high school, in the sense that work habits, attitudes toward school, and other factors often get set for the next 4 years while in 8th grade. High school is already starting, in other words. I encouraged them all to tour not just their own high school in their neighborhood, but a second one, to give them some perspective.

I spent most of my time discussing what in past years are the distractions and events that can derail 8th graders.

I visited all the math classes in the first of 4 quarterly visits to the 8th grade class. The Counseling Department is trying to reach all WMS students 4 times a year with grade- and time-relevant info. For this first visit, I spoke about focusing on the upcoming move to high school, about needing to develop the skill of asking for help, and about the recent media blitz of teen suicides attributed in part to bullying, particularly anti-gay harassment

I also asked each class to break into small groups and create an 8th grade job description: what might a school be looking for if it were to higher the ideal 8th grade student? THe students came up with a great list of qualities, including among many others: perseverance, serving as a role model, taking responsibility, and working hard. Now of course, we have to help them fulfill their description.

The after-school program Team Read is seeking 8th grade volunteers to tutor 2nd and 3rd graders in reading twice per week. 8th grade volunteers would work one-on-one with young readers who are looking to make significant gains in reading. All necessary training is provided by Team Read staff. This is a great job and tutoring experience, with fun incentives and graduation parties.

When I put out a call for volunteers nearly 130 students signed up to attend the information meeting this past Wednesday in the Library. Most took applications and are filling them out. If this sounds like a good experience for your student, encourage them to apply.

Applications are in the Counseling Office, Room 134, and are due Sept. 23rd.

The first week is one of the easiest and also one of the most difficult for our students. In most of their heads, summer was over weeks ago, as they were anxious to meet up with friends and see what’s up with their schoolmates and classes. The apparent chaos of schedule handouts was made much easier by our wonderful parent volunteers, and by this time, the 8th graders knew the drill; it went pretty smoothly.

In Seattle schools, most middle school counselors are still assigned the non-counseling duty of organizing and adjusting schedules. Some day, this will change, but in the meantime, I will be busy the next week or two getting TA’s scheduled, fixing glitches, and answering the many student and parent requests to change a schedule in a system that is unbelievably interlocked and complicated. “You can ask for anything, but you will only get something.” Remember, it’s just middle school, and we will make sure your student gets the best education we can provide.

Pleae do contact me if you have questions or concerns (check the FAQ area of this site first), and I will get back to you as soon as I can. For now, sit back and be there when your student comes home excited (or pensive); the beginning of the school year is a great time to begin a habit of conversation.

Welcome back to school 8th grade Jr. Huskies.  The 8th grade class has done a great job these past four weeks.  The new students have done a terrific job of being flexible and open to their new adjustment and they have transitioned very smoothly.  The returning students have been doing a wonderful job of helping the new students’ transition.  We are all working together to make this 8th grade year successful and fun for every 8th grade student.  To ensure that all 8th graders meet their ultimate level of success, we suggests that you check source on a regular basis, use your planners on a daily basis and develop a time-management routine for homework.  If you need additional support, please communicate with your teachers as well as your Counselor.  I look forward to seeing 8th Grade have a terrific year.

All 7th and 8th grade students new to Washington Middle School this coming school year are welcomed and encouraged to come to a New Student Orientation on Tuesday, September 1, from 10:00 am to noon, in the WMS lunchroom. Meet other students, ask your questions, find out important information about Washington, meet staff members, take a tour. Yes, there will be snacks!

This is a great chance to get a feel for the school and staff before everyone else arrives with you at the start of school on September 9. We warmly invite you to attend to event!