Anonymous wrote:Anonymous wrote:So far this has been a completely useless and discouraging thread.
At least two people are really wishing that people with kids at the school would tell us some good advice for kids who are going to show up there not knowing anybody and without an experience of such a big school…
I responded earlier re: finding activities.
The problem in this thread is the same one in every JR thread on DCUM; a few people come in and derail it with BS about how terrible, chaotic, and violent it is, and the vast majority of us who have kids there and are satisfied don’t feel like spending time fighting with them.
My kids are very happy there. The common thread with kids who are happy there, I think, is that they get involved in one or more activities, they appreciate the benefits of a big, diverse school, and they are comfortable approaching teachers and counselors for help when needed. I’m not going to debate my kids’ experiences with a bunch of strangers on the internet.
Honestly, you need to visit the school and talk with parents who have kids there—like, in real life. Also, follow the school on social media. Come see the spring musical in May or find a game to attend. That’s how you’ll get a real sense of the school. Good luck.
Anonymous wrote:My kid’s a 9th grader- what are all the added supports? I don’t feel like she’s taking advantage. Shes in an academy, and could use some math and science help (as well as English, honestly). First two terms her grades dipped low, but she brought them up by redoing assignments. I feel like study skills aren’t her forte.
Anonymous wrote:So far this has been a completely useless and discouraging thread.
At least two people are really wishing that people with kids at the school would tell us some good advice for kids who are going to show up there not knowing anybody and without an experience of such a big school…
Anonymous wrote:First week will be a complete mess.
And good luck getting your schedule changed.
The counselors literally hide out the first few weeks of school and then say it is too late to change anything
Anonymous wrote:Which feeder school is your kid coming from? If Deal they should be fine. Same big school vibe just more chaos. Biggest thing is to start getting them and yourself adjusted to the idea that they will need to advocate for themselves sometimes. But, it is a good skill to learn. Get involved in a few activities - if they have any interest in STEM - Biomedicine, Computer Science and Engineering Academies all start in 9th grade.
JR has added much more supports in for 9th graders then used to exist.