Going to a new school is a significant transition. Will your child like their new classmates? How will they adapt to the new school’s culture and teaching style? How will they experience belonging in this new setting?
Parents can support their sons entering BC High’s Arrupe Division by establishing a routine, instilling academic confidence, and learning about the BC High curriculum and resources.
BC High’s middle school, the Arrupe Division, begins in 7th grade. Our unique middle school environment is specifically designed to support adolescent boys’ learning styles and unique needs.
Our students are given targeted supports to help them prepare for high school, such as:
During the first weeks of school, teachers and staff help students become acquainted with the Arrupe Division’s approach to learning and the schedules we use throughout the day.
As students move from elementary school to middle school, they have more homework and experience greater academic challenges within the classroom. Students need strong time management habits and planning tools to help them manage the increased workload.
If you’re wondering how to prepare your child for middle school, you’re not alone—many parents want to set their son up for success in middle school. One way you can help your son is by helping him establish a study routine at home. Create a dedicated space for him to work on his homework, and help him set specific times during the afternoon and evening for studying. Tools like planners and digital calendars can also help your son keep track of deadlines and upcoming projects.
For many students, transitioning to a more challenging academic environment is an adjustment. Your son may have found school relatively easy before, never needing extra help or support. But when faced with new expectations, getting support and asking for help are often necessary for success.
Encourage your son to ask questions, advocate for themselves, and connect with their teachers. Let him know that asking questions is a sign of engagement and intelligence, and critical for learning.
One of the best ways you can support your son in the Arrupe Division is by understanding the curriculum, enrichment opportunities, and school resources at BC High.
In middle school, our Arrupe students study:
Our students also have access to talented guidance counselors, service opportunities, and enrichment opportunities through weekly Flex Blocks. They also have a variety of co-curricular experiences to choose from, ranging from Chess and Robotics, to Strength and the World War II Movie Club.
We offer students academic support through weekly advisory blocks and through our Academic Resource Center, where students can work one-on-one with learning specialists to develop study skills and create learning goals.
Meeting new peers can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that everyone is new to the school—your son won’t be the only one navigating new friendships.
Encourage your son to start school with an open mind, a friendly attitude, and a confidence in his ability to make strong connections. By choosing to treat others with empathy and kindness, your son can make friends and help build a strong community amongst his peers.
Students in Arrupe are encouraged to be independent learners and build a strong sense of responsibility. You can support your son as he becomes more independent by teaching him how to manage his belongings, homework, and daily schedule.
In Arrupe, we use our Flex Block to give students some independence. Students can use this time how they choose — for academic support, homework, enrichment, or spiritual development.
It’s normal to be nervous before starting a new school. Parents can help their sons with through their worries by:
At BC High, we believe in educating the whole person. Our students continue to grow and learn outside the classroom through clubs, athletics, and service opportunities. Middle school students can explore their interests or try new things, helping build their confidence—experiencing improvement through consistent practice goes a long way toward developing self-efficacy.
BC High’s Arrupe Division emphasizes character formation, community, and service. We help our students live these values through service opportunities, community events, and in day-to-day living. As a parent, you can reinforce these values at home, encouraging your son to be considerate of others, find solutions, and try again after a setback.
BC High may be further away than your son’s previous school. Make sure you have your transportation logistics solidly in place before the first day of school, for both morning and afternoon commute. Make sure your son is prepared for school with classroom supplies and an understanding of his schedule.
Navigating how to stay in the loop without overstepping your son’s independence is challenging for every parent. We encourage students to take ownership of their learning by asking questions about assignments and communicating with their teachers directly.
Through twice-yearly conferences, we give parents an opportunity to meet with teachers one-on-one to discuss their child’s schoolwork. If parents have additional questions or concerns—especially at the beginning of the year—we encourage them to reach out to staff or faculty.
BC High offers a number of events and volunteer opportunities that give parents an opportunity to meet other BC High families. Parental involvement leads to a smoother transition, so we create opportunities for families to be part of the school’s life, forge connections, and support their son at his new school.
The first day of school can be nerve-wracking—but it can be exciting, too. But with the right mindset and planning, your son can have a smooth transition to Arrupe.
Some final steps on how to support your son before the first day:
With preparation, communication, and support, families can help their child transition smoothly and confidently into BC High’s Arrupe Division.
Curious about how your son could thrive at BC High’s Arrupe Division?
Reach out and get in touch with our enrollment team for more information.