I am writing to give you a "heads-up" warning about the challenges that will be faced in the coming months. Around this time of year, mysterious things start happen. Statistically speaking, students grades have a tendency to drop dramatically between the months of January and April.

Why, might you ask?

There are a couple of reasons

1. The Academics get more challenging. Much of the first part of the year is review, building off of old concepts, and tackling the easier sections of each subject. Around this time of year is when we start into the more challenging and advanced material.
2. Increased Expectations. By this point in the year, we are looking to get the students ready to step into the 7th grade, and be successful.
3. Decrease in Student Effort. Whether it be fatigue of it being in the middle of the year, or an "I can coast because I did so well so easily last quarter," or the gloomy weather outside, or a bad case of "forgetfulness," or a case of "I am frustrated by I am struggling to understand so I will just stop trying," or whatever the reason, each year students effort takes a plunge.
4. Increase in Student Misbehavior in Class. Some students start to think that they already are "cool 8th graders on summer break" or that the rules mysteriously do not apply to them any more. This leads to an increase in them getting in trouble, and also effects how much they are gaining from their classes.

These four things when combined together makes for a tough time of year. Students, make sure that you do not fall into this trap. It will be tough to fight through, but you must persevere, because you will be better, brighter individuals for it. Parents, keep an eye out for these changes in your child's behaviors. Keep tabs on what work they have to do, that they are doing it, and also the quality of the work that they are doing.

Together, we will work to get through this challenging time of year.