1. 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

2. 5th to 6th Grade Transition Student Perspective
Melana Sheldon
Shayna Straus

3. 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)

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

5. 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

6. Typical Schedule

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

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

11. 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)

12. 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.

13. 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.

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

15. 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?

16. 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