HOW TO USE THIS DOCUMENT There are five themed sections in the toolkit: Communication, Culture, Instruction, Family Engagement, and Social Emotional Learning. Each theme is described below along with an explanation of why it is a theme within this toolkit. Within each themed section are selected activities that include an overview, implementation strategies, recommendations for best practices, considerations for select populations and counselors, and digital resources.
Each activity is also visually coded according to one or more of the following transition groups: E= Elementary to middle school years M= Middle school years H= Middle school to High school years Communication Good communication between the school and family is an important part of a school’s overall plan. Understanding children's families, language, and culture is valuable as teachers prepare to help children learn. When critical information is shared, families benefit because they can then promote learning at home. Ultimately, children benefit from improved communication because connecting the home and school creates a seamless relationship that helps children learn and succeed. Open lines of communication contribute to smooth transitions between grade levels and school buildings.
Culture In any school, there are observable practices we can see every day, such as processes, structures, and patterns. There are also things happening below the surface that are not as easy to see like relationships, identity, and connections. The latter practices influence the former, but they are often neglected while trying to “fix” the observable systems. Successful schools recognize the importance of nurturing the root of school culture that lies in those below-the-surface practices. By doing so, students have less trouble transitioning within a system that operates this way.
Instruction In a technology-driven, ever-changing society, teachers are now preparing students to be successful not only in school but also in their future careers. Because students will be headed down multiple pathways, teachers must create learning experiences that reflect both students’ current and future interests. One strategy that can create smoother transitions between schools and even into postsecondary plans is personalized learning. By preparing lessons that cater to students’ individual needs, teachers make education more relevant and engaging.
Family Engagement Involving families in their child’s education can lead to improved student success. Intentional family involvement is particularly helpful to diverse populations and those who are least likely to finish school. By creating opportunities to welcome families to the school, the school culture is positively impacted, and families are more likely to engage with educators throughout the school year. If engagement practices are implemented throughout the district, students and families can transition more easily between grade levels and school buildings.
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) During middle school, SEL is vital to developing the whole child. As students navigate through middle school, educators and counselors must intentionally support their self-awareness, self-management skills, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. While academic content is often the focus when preparing for instruction, the skilled middle school teacher prepares lessons that support the developing middle school child. Counselors serve an integral role in supporting social emotional learning by providing relevant resources to teachers and by developing meaningful relationships with students. By focusing on these critical pieces of development, students are primed for smoother transitions between grade levels and school buildings. RELEASED SPRING 2022
7
