5 Things Incoming Sixth-Graders Should Know About Middle School

There's no doubt about it - middle school is an awkward stage in everyone's life. 

Making the shift from elementary to the middle school - and child to teenager is not an easy transition. But we've got some tips for incoming sixth-graders on how to survive - and thrive - in middle school.

Patch asked West Middle School Principal Clint Smiley to share what he thinks every new student should know. Here they are:

1. Relax - You know where your classes are located. You know where your locker is located. You've practiced the combination. There are numerous people who will help you. There are numerous people who want you to be successful.

2. Get involved in something. Anything. Sports, student council, honor society, a club, the talent show or the yearbook staff. Middle school is a lot like life - You get out of it what you put into it.

3. The staff has been preparing for you for a long time.  You'll see these plans in action in your classes each day. Exciting, engaging and educational lessons brought to you by an enthusiastic teacher.

4. It goes by quick. Each year, eighth graders tell me they can't believe that their time in middle school is over.

5. You got this. By the first Friday of school, you will wonder what you were so nervous about.