An 8th grader’s advice for surviving middle school by Nora Colkin 

It’s September of 2024. We are in for a treat this school year. But before we get started, there is some advice about middle school that all the younger students should follow. 

First, it is important to make sure that you have everything you need for your morning classes. You may only go to your locker before 1st period, before lunch, after lunch, and after 9th period. You may not go in between classes. You will be marked as late if you arrive after the second bell rings at 8:15. 

Secondly, when it is time for lunch. A good strategy would be to put your stuff down at your lunch table before you get in line to get your lunch. When you are in the lunch line, many kids will try to cut in front of you. You should pay a lot of attention to where you are in line. 

At the end of the day, there is an option to go to visit any of your teachers for academy. During that time, you can discuss anything with your teacher. Such as anything you went over in class, practice questions for tests, anything in the class that may be making you uncomfortable, etc. Academy is a good resource for students that intend to put in effort to do well in their classes. Academy period goes from 2:51 to 3:11. 

Another important thing to know about in middle school is the Guidance office. If your last name starts with A-F, your Guidance Counselor is Mrs. Cornacchia, if your last name starts with G-M, you have Ms. Archer, if your last name starts with N-Z, you have Mr. Brown. However, if your Guidance Counselor is busy, you can always talk to another counselor or Dr. Joseph. 

The Guidance Counselors want to make sure that you are feeling comfortable and happy. If you don’t feel that way, you can always go to guidance to discuss anything you want. There are times where your Guidance Counselor will call you to their office because they have something they want to make sure you know. Your Guidance Counselor will make sure that you have a great school year!

Lastly, it is most essential to try your best, be kind to your teachers, classmates, counselors, etc., remember that you are important, have a fun journey, and most importantly always be yourself. Pelham Middle School is very lucky to have you!