We all know that attending college is rarely ever a snap decision, like a spur-of-the-moment journey undertaken by grabbing a compass and tossing a few necessities into a backpack. Preparing for college involves years of thoughtful and dedicated planning to map out the best route, acquire and exercise the necessary skills, and navigate the complexities of higher education.   

Most of us understand the importance of careful college planning, and many start preparing their high schoolers to be college-ready from their very first day of ninth grade. But have you ever wondered about the importance of college prep for middle schoolers? Do they also need to be thinking about how college-ready they are at that age? The quick answer is, yes. 

According to ACT’s 2008 study titled The Forgotten Middle, fewer than 2 out of 10 eighth-grade students were prepared to undertake college-level work by the time they graduated high school. ACT further emphasizes that an eighth grader’s academic achievement can actually predict their readiness for college by graduation. Although the numbers may be daunting, the good news is that the middle school years give students ample time and space to get out of the weeds and onto the right path to achieve their educational goals.

To set our students on the right path to success, middle school is, in fact, the right time to focus on skills such as 

• Time management
• Critical thinking
• Good study habits, and 
• How to persevere, have grit, and be resilient. 

Tools such as these will give students a better chance at integrating smoothly into high school and help them establish an academic identity.

Here at Class 101, our High School Prep 101 program provides students with the academic (and life) tools they need for high school and their future. In just four action-packed sessions, students will learn how to communicate confidently, organize effectively, set SMART goals, and take relevant and accurate notes. They will gain insight into academic achievement, what it means to be a learner, and how to transition into high school, successfully. 

In this high-energy boot camp, students meet for two-hour sessions Monday through Thursday in a safe and fun environment. Using media, activities, worksheets, and quizzes, our facilitators will guide, coach, and empower your rising freshman while allowing them to reflect on who they are and what they want for their future. Let’s embark on this journey to higher education together!

We highly encourage parents and students to sign up for a meeting with a Class 101 College Advisor. In our one-on-one meeting, we can explain the importance of this program to make sure your student builds success from day one.