Howard B. Mattlin Middle School A tradition of P.R.I.D.E Welcome Parents! Incoming Grade 6 Parent Transition Meeting March 6, 2017 Joseph Coladonato, Ed.D., Principal Ms. Regina Talento, Assistant Principal Ms. Stephanie Ralton, Guidance Counselor A tradition of P.R.I.D.E

5th to 6th Grade Transition Student Perspective Melana Sheldon Shayna Straus

Grade 6 Scheduling Teaming in Grade 6 Students are on a team of teachers in grade 6 for their four core subject areas: Math, Social Studies, Science, and ELA Special Area Subjects: Family & Consumer Science (Every Other Day - Semester Courses) Computer CEU (Every Other Day – Quarter) World Language (Every Other Day - Quarter Chinese, French or Spanish) Physical Education (Every Other Day - Full Year) Health (Every Day - Semester Course) General Music & Art (Every Other Day – Semester)

Core Class Rotation Math and Science- Teacher A ELA and Social Studies - Teacher B There are two teachers on each team.

World Language Selection Process 5th Grade Experience - Spanish, French & Chinese 22 instructional periods per language 6th Grade - Students begin to specialize in a language 22 instructional periods (1 Quarter, alternate days) World Language Registration Forms – Due February 6, 2017 What if my child has not completed one or more of the languages? Wednesday, May 10, 2017

Typical Schedule

Extracurricular Activities Middle School students continue to develop interests in clubs, student council, music, drama, and other activities Wide range of clubs that meet Zero Period on Monday and Wednesday. Calendar available on the Mattlin Website Become empowered to join Student Council Participate in morning intramurals

Music Program Students can participate in the following performing groups in grade 6: Symphonic Orchestra 5th and 6th Grade Chorus 5th and 6th Grade Band Jazz Band MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY Zero Period Bell Schedule 7:49- 8:30 Clubs Music Performing Groups: Orchestra 5 Band 6 Chorus 7/8 Band 7/8 9th Period 2:54-3:35 Chorus 5/6 Strings 6/7/8 Band 5 Remedial

Looking Ahead Math Courses Mathematics 7 Accelerated Mathematics 7 Grade 7 Math 7 Accelerated Grade 8 Algebra 1 Grade 7 Math 7 Grade 8 Math 8

Where Should My Child Be Developmentally? Socially Independence Academically Communication Self Esteem Perception Maturity Adapting Initiative Remorse Autonomy Stress Management

Social and Emotional Development A developmental year with many transitions. Becoming more self aware Important to communicate with your child as peer groups become an important outlet. Reinforce that support in school becomes a vital resource The relationship between home and school is critical Higher expectations and increased student responsibility. Important to arrive at school by 8:30 AM Make use of Remedial Period (9th per. Mon, Tues, and Thurs. Reinforce proper use of technology, social media, and Chromebooks (1:1 Devices)

Simple rules for text messaging Texting doesn't replace talking. Keep it short and sweet. Don't text in front of others. Think before you text. Be kind. Texting is a privilege, not a right.

Tween dating Pre-teen dating or ‘“tween dating” has become common. Tweens, children aged between 8 and 12 years, are following the footsteps of teenagers. When tweens start dating, they channel all their energy and focus into the significant other, leaving his/her family and friends behind. Most child development experts have agreed about the fact that early dating can be harmful for tweens, which in turn can have negative effects on their behavior.

Increase in moodiness and depression Co-dependency Less time spent with friends “outside the couple” At risk for “risky behaviors”

What can parents do? Talk. One discussion won't be enough to help your tween understand your values and your expectations. Seize any moment your tween presents to you, answering questions he or she might have. Make your viewpoints clear on the subject of dating and what's appropriate behavior. Be Aware. Stay connected to other parents, so you know what's going on. If you hear about inappropriate activity, discuss the issue with your tween and ask what he or she thinks about that behavior. Keeping connections with other parents could be your best way of knowing what's going on with your tween and her social circle. Set Limits. If you decide to allow your tween to date, be specific about your conditions. Will the tweens always have adult supervision? Where are the tweens permitted to go?

Question and Answer Session Thank you to all of our parents for joining us this evening Howard B. Mattlin Middle School A tradition of P.R.I.D.E