Impactful:
I was recently asked what advice I’d give our 8th graders as they prepare to transition to high school. As I thought about my answer, I realized the advice is the same for our 8th graders as it is for our outgoing seniors heading off to college, the military, or the workforce.
Whether you are 14 or 18, the next chapter requires a few simple but essential habits.
Take Ownership - This is a major part of maturing. Whether it’s your education or a new job, take responsibility for your tasks. Being reliable is a choice. Ask yourself: When people need something done, am I the person they think of? Make being dependable a habit now.
Get Involved - Don't just be a spectator. Volunteer, join a club, and participate in activities. This is how you meet new people and open doors for future networking. You get out of an experience exactly what you put into it.
Lead with Respect - Always carry yourself with respect for those around you. Be the person who listens first and responds thoughtfully. Conflict is inevitable, but how you handle it matters. Keep your emotions in check and focus on talking through problems rather than reacting out of frustration.
Find Your Balance - Life gets busy quickly. You have to learn to balance work and responsibilities with your own health (mental, emotional, social, and physical). If you don't take care of yourself, it’s hard to take care of your responsibilities.
Choose Your Circle Wisely - I tell my own kids this all the time: You are who you hang out with. Find friends who share your goals and aspirations. Surround yourself with people who pick you up and push you to be better, not those who pull you down.
The transition to high school (for 8th graders) and/or college/military/workforce (for our seniors graduating) can be challenging, but they are also a fresh start and part of the maturation process. Focusing on the five pieces of advice above can only bolster your chances of success!
Practical:
Please see the many events and schedule changes in Weeks-at-a-glance below.
FINAL Weeks-at-a-glance:
- Tuesday, May 12th: 6 Sting Period - National Decision Day (11:50 am - 12:45 pm)
- Thursday, May 14th: 6 Sting Period - Final RTI session for 2025-26 school year
- Friday, May 15th: 6 Sting Period - Sting Time Advisory (yearbook distribution)
- Monday, May 18th: 6 Sting Period - Sting Time Advisory (locker cleanout)
- Tuesday, May 19th: 6 Sting Period - Sting Time Advisory (Final school day for seniors).
- Wednesday, May 20th: Full 6 Period (C@SH DAY!)
- Thursday, May 21st: Modified 6 (Early release @ 1:11 pm)
- Friday, May 22nd: Modified 6 (Final day of 2025-26 school year)