Easing Students Into New Settings

From the Anne Arundel Extra section of the Post, "Easing Students Into New Settings" subtitled "Parents Urged to Come On First Day of Classes":

For many children, the first day of school is accompanied by nervous butterflies, particularly for those beginning middle school or high school. After ruling the roost as fifth- or eighth-graders, they must start anew in a different school with older students.

But in Anne Arundel County, children entering the sixth and ninth grades can start school a day before the big kids take over. A staggered opening schedule during the week of Aug. 28 will allow one day of orientation for the younger children before older students arrive.

"Since they're entering a new environment, this gives them the opportunity to learn about the school before the hustle and bustle of the veterans," said Maneka Wade, a spokeswoman for the Anne Arundel public school system.

The staggered start is one of several methods being used by Maryland school systems to help children adjust to new environments.

For the second year in a row, the Prince George's County school system is encouraging parents to accompany their children to school on the first day of classes, which is Monday. "It's an opportunity to meet the principal, walk your kids to class and meet other parents," said John White, spokesman for the Prince George's public schools.

Last year's take-your-child-to-school day put many children and parents at ease, White said. "It probably helps the most in the way it sets the tone with the teacher from the start," he said. "It's a simple but worthwhile opportunity."

Index Keywords: education