It is hard to believe that it is already the close of the 1st quarter and we are well into our second quarter. By now your child has probably set into a regular routine at school. In order for any student to be successful at his or her school it is important that they develop good organizational skills to last them throughout their lives. Being organized can help reduce stress in their lives and enjoy other aspects of school such as extracurricular activities.

Organization is probably one of the biggest challenges facing any student in middle school. The increase number of classes and teachers coupled with an increase in workload can be overwhelming to some students. Here are some suggestions to help your child be better organized.

• Use type of daily planner such as the Chromebook or smart phone to schedule test dates and other class assignments.
• Use color-coded notebooks for each class.
• Keep a neat locker so you can find what you need.
• Schedule a regular homework time and avoid distractions such as video games during that time.
• Set long-term and short-term goals for what you want out of school.
• Balance school activities and social activities. 
• Always plan a head for things like projects and/or time out of school.

Try some of these suggestions today. It is never to late to start getting organized.

Sometimes middle school students experience stress or they have other problems.  Their problems cannot be solved if they are never discussed.  Encourage your child to talk things over with a trusted adult.  Randy Smith and Jamie Browning are the counselors at Canon City Middle School.  Encourage your children to talk with their counselor if there is a problem.  Parents, please feel free to contact the counselor yourself as well. Mr. Smith’s number is 719-276-5746 and Mrs. Browning’s number is 719-276-5749.

Counseling focus for the months of November and December: DBT (Problem Solving Skills), Bullying and Harassment. 

Dates to remember:

Week of November 6th-9th- Last Round of Growth & Development

Week of November 13th-17th- Healthy Kids Survey

Week of December 4th-7th- Youth Truth Survey

Parent Opt Out Forms

Growth and Development Opt Out

Healthy Kids Colorado Opt Out

Youth Truth Opt Out Form