Establishing Positivity for the New School Year

As we approach the end of summer, it’s time to prepare for the start of a new school year. For many students, this can mean adjusting to a new schedule, new teachers, and possibly a new community and school district. While some students have smoothly navigated the school system, it may have been challenging for others. Parents often devote considerable time to ensuring their children have a positive academic experience, setting them up for success in attending four-year colleges, whether through scholarships, savings funds, or other means. Be mindful that some families face financial difficulties, making it a struggle to provide basic needs like backpacks and supplies, food, and shelter. As a result, some students may find themselves without a stable place to live, technically classified as homeless to school reporting systems. Educators are constantly able to adjust accordingly based on the needs of students and families and address learning loss that often happens during summer recess. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can usually be an impactful barrier to learning as well; however, with all of the research now available, successful partnerships are in place to assist in student success and well-being, and one of the most significant partnerships is parents and teachers.

Research indicates that students can experience learning loss during the summer break if they aren’t engaged in some learning activity.

Although some students attend summer school due to academic requirements, it still presents an opportunity to maintain and reinforce all students’ learning. Programs such as summer camps that incorporate educational components can have a positive impact on students. Research suggests students should engage in at least three hours of academic instruction per day for at least five weeks during the summer. This may compound the setbacks that students experienced during the pandemic’s impact. Unfortunately, students from low-income backgrounds and students of color, Black and Latino students, saw a significant decline in test scores during this time.

Transitioning into a new school year can be exciting yet anxious for students, particularly those moving from elementary to middle or middle to high school. Therefore, students’ well-being must remain a top priority. Keeping lines of communication open, though seemingly cliché, can yield positive outcomes for everyone involved in student success. Parents can stay engaged with their children’s teachers by initiating contact on the first day of school and maintaining consistent communication throughout the academic year. By keeping the lines of communication open, there shouldn’t be any surprises when progress reports or report cards are issued. Never hesitate to contact your students’ teachers. Develop a plan and communication system that works for you and your schedule. While it is incredibly challenging for working and single parents, developing a form of engagement is vital. Being the example shows your student that their learning journey is essential. It also shows students how to advocate for themselves and to embrace their personal and educational journeys. Ask about homework policies and how students can make up any missed work. Make a list of the things necessary to you as a parent and provide insights and critical background information to assist your child in the learning process. Be mindful that students come to school carrying emotional experiences that may not be visible and can become a barrier to their success if not addressed appropriately.

Teachers are often assigned to specific grade levels, while students come in with differing academic abilities.

Some are at grade level, while others may be above or below it. Nonetheless, the expectation is that students will progress throughout the year and be ready to advance to the next level by the year’s end. Parents have an opportunity to discover available resources to support their children’s academic goals, such as utilizing free educational platforms like Khan Academy and local libraries.

Middle school years serve as an opportunity for students to explore their interests. In Solano County, many vocational and technical trades are available for students. For students aspiring to attend college or learn a trade, this is a prime time to explore the expectations and requirements for potential colleges and trades, including understanding the necessary grades, test scores, and prerequisites for admission.

Finally, establishing positive partnerships between parents and schools should be a primary focus, as students need support and the assurance of feeling supported, similar to any other meaningful relationship.

The following list may be of interest:

The Napa Solano Labor Council (for additional information understanding the various Trade Schools)

https://napasolanoclc.org/

Career and Technical Education Department (Solano Community College)

http://www.solano.edu/cte/1819/CTEWebPage2.pdf

Establishing Positivity for the New School Year