Guide To Success
How to Be Successful in Junior High: A Guide for Students & Families
Welcome to Hillsboro Jr. High School! The middle school years—6th, 7th, and 8th grade—are an exciting time filled with growth, new opportunities, and increasing independence. We are committed to
partnering with families to ensure every student feels supported, confident, and prepared for success. Below are some key habits and expectations that help students thrive academically, socially, and
emotionally throughout their junior high journey.
Build Strong Academic Habits
Stay Organized:
Use a planner or an assignment notebook to keep track of homework, projects, and upcoming tests. Reviewing this daily builds responsibility and reduces stress.
Complete Assignments on Time:
Finishing work by the due date helps students stay on track and strengthens essential time-management skills.
Ask Questions:
Encourage your child to advocate for themselves. Teachers are here to help, and asking questions early prevents confusion later.
Use Available Resources:
Students can take advantage of extra help, study guides, teacher help during their available time, online tools, and school-provided supports.
Build Healthy Routines
Consistent Sleep:
Junior high students perform best with 8–10 hours of sleep. Being well-rested improves focus, mood, and overall performance.
Balanced Nutrition:
Eating breakfast and fueling up throughout the day helps students stay energized and ready to learn.
Stay Active:
Physical activity—whether P.E., sports, or free play—supports health, reduces stress, and boosts concentration.
Develop Positive Social & Emotional Skills
Be Respectful and Kind:
Junior high is a time when friendships change and new relationships form. Treating peers and adults with respect helps create a safe, welcoming environment for everyone.
Communicate:
Encourage students to talk about their day, their feelings, and any challenges they face. Strong communication helps build confidence and resilience.
Get Involved:
Joining clubs, teams, or extracurricular activities can help students develop leadership, make friends, and discover new interests.
Stay Connected with School
Check Skyward, ParentSquare & School Communications:
Families should monitor student progress and stay informed using Skyward, the school website, newsletters, ParentSquare posts/messages, Schoology, and teacher updates.
Attend School Events:
Student–family engagement through open houses, conferences, and activities strengthens the school-home partnership.
Reach Out Early:
If challenges arise—academic, social, or emotional—contact teachers, counselors, or the office. We are here to support your child’s success.
Encourage a Growth Mindset
Junior high is a time to try, learn, and grow. Students should know that mistakes are a natural part of learning. Praise effort, perseverance, and improvement—not just grades—to help them
build confidence and resilience.
Final Thoughts
Success in junior high is not about being perfect; it’s about learning responsibility, developing healthy habits, and building strong relationships. With support from home and school, our students
can thrive academically and personally as they prepare for high school and beyond.
Together, we can make these years rewarding, memorable, and full of growth!