There are around 4 months until the end of the school year and once it eventually ends the eighth graders will be sent off to John F. Kennedy High School.This is a big change for a lot of eighth graders since classes become difficult, there’s more activities to choose from and friendships change. How do 8th graders feel about these changes?
Eighth grader Nirali Patel spoke about how she is nervous about the workload change from middle school to high school.
“There are only four class blocks in high school so that means more work for each block. It’s going to be difficult to handle it,” Patel explained.
Even with the excessive workload, Patel says she is excited to make new friends.
“There will be new people from other middle schools going to JFK that I can make friends with,” she expressed.
Although Patel has a few setbacks that make her anxious. She commented on her excitement for band and choir classes.
“I’m so excited for what band class is going to be like next year,” Patel said.
Alya Amer said she’s excited about working hard and getting good grades.
“During high school I need to work hard and lock in,” Amer stated.
She is concerned about her grades during high school, but she is excited for the high school experience.
Amer said, “I’m excited about high school! I feel it’s going to be fun.”
Guidance counselor Mrs. Pafumi-Libitz says students are tense about high school because it’s an unknown experience.
“Managing time and going to different classes is a big adjustment,” she explained.
“If a student is worried about next year I might call their parents. I let the child know that everyone else is going through the same problem,” Mrs. Pafumi commented. “Most kids aren’t nervous but they do ask questions about block scheduling.”
“In order to get ready for college applications you should participate in high school. You could do things like join extracurricular activities, try out for a sport, meet new people and develop experiences,” Mrs. Pafumi shared.
She also listed what students should keep in mind while in high school.
“It’s important to get involved, study hard, focus on academics and make lasting friendships,” Mrs. Pafumi expressed.
Mrs. Pafumi also said, “One of the most important things to do is have good attendance.”
“Our main goal here is to prepare students for high school. I think that if you have a positive experience at middle school then you will have a good transition to high school,” Mrs.Pafumi affirmed.
