Changing Schools

If you are moving, a switch in schools for your student is inevitable unless you are moving right within the boundaries of their current school. If you are leaving the area it can be even more intense for the student because they will have no access other than electronic methods or snail mail to get in touch with old friends.

Here are a few suggestions to help make the transition between schools easier for your student:

• Realize that wherever you are going that you have options. You are not just stuck with whatever school your boundaries decides on for you. You can always ask for an exception or choose a charter or private school for your child. For example, if your child is very gifted in one area and a certain school will foster that gift better than another you may want to consider using that school regardless of whether you live in the boundaries or not.
• Talk with your student about the change. If they haven't switched schools before you may want to talk about what they can expect and also ask them what they would like to get from the new school.
• Take a tour of the new school. Get the student familiar with the surroundings and possibly where the classes they will be attending are located if possible.
• Meet teachers when possible. Your student will be much better off if they have at least a few familiar faces when they go to the new school on the first day.
• Talk to you student about the trials that they may face and give them some coping strategies with how to face these issues.
• Find your student's niche. If your student is musical be sure to get them into some music classes. This will give them a built in peer group with similar interests and help them to feel like they have a place of belonging.
• If you sense that your student will have a difficult time you may want to meet with a school counselor on your own to find out how the school and you can help meet the needs of the student.
• Keep as many things consistent in your home life as possible during this time. Children of all ages thrive on routine, familiar surroundings and solid family life.

Moving to a new school is not an easy thing for students. Be patient and understanding and always be on the look out for risky behaviors. You don't want your child to slip through the cracks and have their needs go unnoticed. You can make a big difference in their experience if you will engage in conversations and be proactive.