TRANSITION
By Mary Tucker
It does not seem possible but we are nearing the end of the third quarter. As the school year draws to an end, I like to do activities that address the changes that the new grade represents. This may involve physical locations, recess and lunch times, and scholastic expectations. One of the ways I have done this is to ask the current grade to verbalize or list (depending upon their age) things to expect. I have found the students to be extremely honest! For example, "if you think you can get by without filling out your agenda book, you are wrong!" I then relay these suggestions to the students who will be promoted. In addition, this allows the students an opportunity to reflect on their year and recap some of the activities that are specific to their grade. For example, our second graders spend time researching the rain forest and then cap it off with a field trip to a nearby zoo. This is strictly a second grade activity. In addition to activities we also identify skills that they have mastered. For another "end of the year "idea, I take a class picture, nothing structured, mount it on paper that is somewhat larger than the photo and have the kids autograph around the perimeter. This can then be given to the teacher at the end of school.
When students have to change building locations in the fall, the importance of "prepping" is increased. For a number of years I had the opportunity to help facilitate our elementary students transitioning to middle school. We would do a mini-tour of the building. We were fortunate to be within walking distance. Sometimes we introduced the principal and staff members. I might have the students write down questions about the middle school before we "toured". I am not technological but sure can access those who are! I have then tried to make a short video of the school with middle school students as my "tour guides". We are a small enough system that kids are recognized by others plus making the video (and viewing it) is a neat activity. The middle school counselor and I have brainstormed to improve the process for this year.
Often the year can come to an end leaving me with "I wish I had" thoughts. Hopefully in 2006 I will be more prepared!!