Trampling through the crowded school halls, so many classrooms, so many halls. “What’s a ‘first period’? There’s a second!?” For parents, and for those who transitioned online during 2020. Many question, ‘How different can the elementary-middle school transition be?’ It’s not as easy as you might think for someone who’s experiencing it for the first time. Recess, spelling tests, and field day are all things we left behind when we went to middle school. Those who left in March of 2022 for an “early spring break” will never understand the transition from elementary to middle school. My interviewee, a newly transitioned 6th grader, will give the small details and insights.

     One thing that many children are scared of is lockers – though, many say that they’ve never even used their lockers. So, it’s nothing to dread over. Another thing that not many kids think about is the larger assignments and grades. Grades are a big deal in middle school, and it’s nothing like elementary school where it is all fun and games. In middle school, you’re not babied, there’s no line leader – a lot more trust is put in you. There is a social view on this transition. You go from the very top of the school, back to the bottom. Popularity might seem like a big thing and there are very clearly defined ‘groups’ of people. If you’re friends with certain people, you’re part of a certain group.

      Transitioning from elementary school to middle school can be a big step for a 6th grader. In the interview, the students shared their experiences and feelings about this new chapter in their education. It’s fascinating to hear their perspective and how they navigate the changes. Middle school brings new challenges and opportunities, and it’s important to support students during this transition.