Welcome New Freshmen and Parents!

Here are some tips from our students on getting the best start in your first year at IB:

1.  Plan now to attend the Annual Freshman Mixer, hosted by the International Baccalaureate Support Foundation.  This party will be the week before school starts in August, and all new IB Freshmen are invited to meet one another and some of the upperclassmen.  There will be snacks, a DJ and great dancing.  Also door prizes! It feels great to meet your new class and then recognize them all as you walk through the halls on your first day of high school!  Be sure the IBSF has your correct email and mailing address so you will get your invitation!  Email your information to ddstearns@cox.net.

2.  Take your summer reading seriously!  Be sure you have completed all of it before your first day at school.

3.  Academics come first, and any high school will be more demanding than middle school, even more so for the IB Program.  Try to study at least a little each night, even if you do not have an assignment.  This will help you keep from getting behind.  Use good time management skills.

4.  Even though academics are first priority, try to choose a sport or a few clubs that really interest you and join!  As a 9th grader, you belong!  You will meet new friends in the upper classes and find opportunities for contribution and leadership.

5.  Don't be discouraged if your first test grades are not as high as you expect.  You may need to alter your study habits to grow into your new courses.  If you are having more trouble in a class than you expect, ask for help earlier than later.  Your teachers want you to succeed.

6.  Familiarize yourself with the CAS requirements for the 9th and 10th grades.  Pick up your CAS book, read the requirements, and get started!  You may begin to accumulate and record your CAS hours as soon as you complete the 8th grade, and the summer will afford you time and opportunities to make a good start.  For volunteer opportunities in the community and opportunities for leadership training, consider joining Chain Reaction, phone: 202-9681, email: cs1@mychainreaction.org.  This is an organization of teen volunteers from all schools in our community.  Meetings are once a month.