I Didn’t Know This Was Possible During Middle School.
Shane’s 6th grade report card was the same for three quarters: 2 B’s and 5 A’s. His first quarter was straight A’s – so he made honor roll, and had an exceptional performance, all around. Shane enjoyed his first year of middle school, and wasn’t bothered (much) by the social changes. Shane just goes with the flow.
Shane also came home every day from school and announced his homework: “I have two pages of math, a little bit of reading for English, and 25 minutes of practice for instrumental music.” Then he would go upstairs and do that homework, asking for permission to do his reading before bed – and then he would then actually read it before bed.
It was awesome to watch him pull off most everything required by the new school, seven separate classes and teachers, and keeping his friends close, too. He learned very quickly how to use his locker, what to take with him to classes, how to organize his two separate binders (one for morning, one for afternoon). He remembered to turn in almost everything on time and, when he forgot, he remembered the next day.
Shane had interesting experiences with the school bully, who helped and emotionally pulverized him within the course of two days, He worked on the morning show, walked to school with his friends, joined the writer’s club and was in the school band and the school play. He kept a nice, organized balance.
To be honest, I didn’t know this was possible during middle school. My middle school experience was a disaster. Dylan’s middle school experience was a disaster. It was a struggle from day one for both of us.
But for Shane, he’s happy, well-adjusted and having a great time. And he made the honor roll, too.
He should be very proud of himself, but he has remained humble.