A visit to middle school

Earlier today I was able to attend a college & career prep class with Ryan. He was bored out of his mind, naturally, but I found it very informative. Also, I don't think I embarrassed him too much by being there; at least, he didn't complain or roll his eyes when he took the seat next to me, ha!

There were a couple of handouts for the parents, including this eye-catching, colorful booklet:

As you can see, it's just a plethora of information for both parents and students.

I don't know about other places, but here in Utah, middle/junior high schools include grades 7-9, although the 9th graders are still considered Freshmen. The high school is just down the road, but the 9th graders don't get to go there until they're Sophomores. A bit different, but okay.

Anyway, the guidance counselors have been working with the kids since the 7th grade, so they've gotten to know them a bit. Each quarter, the students fill out a S.M.A.R.T Goals worksheet, updating or changing the goals they might have set for themselves. As parents, we're encouraged to be aware of those goals and help our kids.

I think I may have lucked out, though, because Ryan is a self-starter and an overachiever. When he sets a goal, he does anything and everything to make sure he accomplishes it. It's very admirable, considering I'm more of a "Eh, it'll get done when it gets done" kind of person.

My guidance counselor in high school was completely useless. I had to trudge through the confusing maze of college applications and everything, by myself, and we definitely did not have a prep class like Ryan's school. It's really a miracle that I was able to attend college at all!

Ryan is a bright, intelligent kid (and yes, I know I'm biased); I really don't want to drop the ball on this because he has some big aspirations, and I know he can accomplish his goals. He has a lot going for him and I want to make sure he has every opportunity to try.