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Middle school is such a tough time anyway for kids, and now that one of mine will be looking at that in the next couple of years (he's finishing 4th grade this year) I'd like to know how other parents like their middle-school students' schools. If you're not in a district for a middle school you like, what you are thinking of doing? Going anyway? Private school? I know some parents put their children's names in for Howard because it's a magnet school, but how about if your child doesn't make it in? I have already given a lot of thought to this but as this school year ends and we have only one more in elementary school, I'd like to hear what some other parents think.

Hi Carole~

I am facing this issue myself currently. My oldest starts middle school in the fall. We tried Howard Magnet but he was not accepted (not really sure why...they said it was an FCAT score issue but he scored very high). We are zoned for Ft. King and I have heard conflicting opinions. We can't afford private school, particularly since my husband got laid off last Tuesday. We aren't sure what to do. All we can hope is that we have taught him well. We are very involved in his life...other than that...prayer! lol We have limited options and at this point are hoping for the best unless a blessing comes along in the near future.



Dani

I am also zoned for Ft. King and probably know some of the same stories. I do have a couple of friends who work there whose children are going there, so if they are comfortable with that then it gives me a better feeling. We haven't applied for Howard yet, and the jury's out on whether I will. I think one of my son's would like it and the pace, and one would not, and since they'll have a year when they're at the same school it's hard to call. They are at a magnet now, which I loved. I could not afford private school, either, and I've always been a big supporter of public schools (I was once part of the school system) so it's a big concern. I think, like you, I'll just pray that this is the right thing.

I have been blessed that I am in the Belleview Middle School district. My daughter was there in the 90's and my youngest is in the 8th grade. It is a terrific school environment and the teachers, administrative staff and support staff are wonderful. My oldest (now 32) went to Lake Weir. I do believe that wherever they go it is important to be involved in the school any way that you can. Middle schoolers can become less communicative so you really need your "ear to the wall". Use teacher/school web sites and e-mail to know what your child is supposed to be doing and how they are doing. (The 'bring home' notes tend to get lost in the bottom of a back pack!) While magnet and private schools are great, there is a positive for schooling in your district. Middle schoolers are learning more socializing skills. Going to school with the neighbors can help build bonds. Plus, the parents can help each other keep up to date on what's going on. I believe we have great teachers in all of our schools. Good communication and involvement between school-teacher-parent-child is a vital key to middle school success. My 8th grader is the last of 3 (4 more years!!) and I've survived them all. And, I have a granddaughter starting Kindergarten in the fall. I've been in PTO, SAC and Band Boosters. Middle school can be as rewarding as it is stressful. Learn some stress relieving breathing techniques and dive in!