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FWPS Shares Helpful Guide for Parents on the Fifth-to-Sixth Grade Transition

The move from elementary to middle school is a major milestone – not just for scholars, but for their families, too. For many students, the jump from fifth to sixth grade marks their first taste of independence and increased responsibility. And while it’s an exciting time, it also comes with plenty of changes that can catch families off guard if they’re not expecting them.

To share insights on this transition, Federal Way Public Schools recently sat down with FWPS College and Career Readiness and Career and Technical Education Facilitator, Prema Higgins, who is a certificated school counselor with a Master of Education in School Counseling and is a Doctoral Candidate. Prema has worked with middle and high school students, supporting transitions between grade levels, and was able to offer some insight into the middle school experience and how parents can support their child’s move to sixth grade.

After speaking with Prema Higgins, they created a guide to help parents navigate this transition with confidence, compassion, and clear expectations. Transitioning to middle school is a major life step, filled with new opportunities and challenges. However, with preparation, patience, and partnership, parents can help their child step into this next chapter with confidence and resilience – and they don’t have to do it alone. Their child’s school counselor, orientation events, connections with other parents, and peer-to-peer mentor groups like WEB Crew are all available to help children adjust through this transition. 

Visit their guide at https://www.fwps.org/about-us/news-and-information/story/~board/news/post/what-parents-need-to-know-about-the-fifth-to-sixth-grade-transition.

Image courtesy of Federal Way Public Schools.

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