Socially -- join something right away.

Academically -- know that at many schools the teachers expect you to go to them outside of class. Talking to the teacher for more information, for clarification, for help is not a weakness, it is a strength that is rewarded all the through to college recommendation letters.

Freshman year is all about adjustments - social, time management and academic pace. It's sophomore year you have to look out for.

Another vote for a fall sport. Most have preseason practices over the summer so it's a great chance to meet people before school even starts. DC's school has a large, coed cross country team with an emphasis on supporting one another and a strong sense of community. The whole season was a fabulous experience and made the transition easy.

Anonymous wrote:Thoughts on your experience coming in as a freshman to a school where kids have been together for 3 or more years already?

Academic or social challenges?

I would echo the earlier comment that participating in a fall sport or group activity (play, etc) is key to the transition. It was seamless and I attribute 90% of it to the fall sport (and it wasn’t a sport my child has a particular talent in…just an average kid on the team).

Anonymous wrote:I had my kid do writing training before 9th grade. It was nice to cruise through the longer writing assignments.

Yes, this. We do writeathome.com in the summers, and it helps my son every time.

I had my kid do writing training before 9th grade. It was nice to cruise through the longer writing assignments.

Thoughts on your experience coming in as a freshman to a school where kids have been together for 3 or more years already?

Academic or social challenges?

Also wondering about this and if there are recommendations for things students or families can put in place now in preparation for the bump up to HS. Like transportation options, EF skills practice, etc. What would have made the transition easier?

I was told this and it turned out to be true- join something substantive in the fall. DS did a no cut sport, his buddy did stage crew for a big fall production. Both made friends and had great transitions. Their other friend didn’t and is having a much harder time socially/emotionally.

Freshmen year was easier than what we all expected. my kid did choose several study halls and that gave the option to do some hw in school and not have as much in the afternoon. Highly recommend that.

What are your major takeaways from your student’s/family’s experience freshman year of high school?

The biggest adjustment? Highest hurdle?
Unexpected social pressures (for kids or parents)?
Homework load?
Best / worst?

For those for whom high school was the first private school experience, do you have any tips on the transition?

Thank you!!