LMK Guide to Learning: Transition to Middle School
The transition to LMK Middle School begins in January of 5th grade and continues through the start of the school year. Our goal is to prepare incoming 6th grade students for a well-rounded and successful middle school experience. Members of the LMK transition team work with teachers and administrators at the four elementary schools to ensure every student experiences a smooth transition from 5th to 6th grade. The transition program helps students and their families form an understanding of LMK Middle School, while reinforcing and honoring successes in elementary school. The multi-layered approach begins with a parent information and orientation session, visits to each elementary school by current 6th grade students, school counselors and LMK Middle School Principal, Scott Fried, and concludes with an orientation for all incoming students in August prior to the start of the school year.
School Visits: Fifth grade students are introduced to the middle school and have an opportunity to ask questions when middle school counselors, the LMK Principal and current 6th grade student from each elementary school meet with fifth grade students.
Parent Orientation: Administrators and LMK Support Staff host an information session for parents to answer questions and provide an overview of the instructional program at LMK Middle School.
6th Grade Pen Pals: Sixth grade students correspond with a fifth grader from their elementary school to share experiences and answer questions about becoming a middle school student.
Buddy Day: Fifth graders spend a day at the middle school and shadow a 6th grade “buddy” to experience a typical LMK Day . Students tour the building, have lunch in the cafeteria and participate in activities with administrators and school counselors.
Husky Day: A full-day event designed to introduce 5th graders from across the four elementary schools to each other prior to arriving at LMK in the fall. Teams of fifth grade students participate in ice-breaker and team building activities developed by the District’s K-12 Physical Education and Health faculty. The goal is for students make new connections while having fun!
6th Grade Orientation: Incoming 6th grade students attend the orientation program at LMK in August. Students receive class schedules and gather with their 6th grade teams, and have an opportunity to navigate the building with their schedules.
Ongoing Support: Administrators, counselors, and teachers continue to support and orient students to LMK with extended home bases, grade level meetings and school counselor sessions.