New School Year, New Start

I can’t believe it is already back to school time!  It came up quickly this year since our summer was shortened to adjust our school year in our district.  So ready or not, here we go!  This year is not as big of a transition year for us as last year was.  10th and 7th grade mean we are in our second year of high school and junior high and hopefully are getting a handle on both but I have no doubt we will get more curve balls thrown our way.

When our kids are little and they start preschool or kindergarten, it feels like such a huge change and don’t get me wrong, it is, but as they get older, the implications of their education and how it ultimately will shape the rest of their lives becomes daunting and overwhelming at times.  We can’t do it for them but we want the best for them and want to ensure they have all the opportunity ahead of them to do anything they want.

As I was back to school shopping with my daughter, she stated that she was determined to get all As this year and really focus on working hard.  School has never been as easy for her so I love her determination and I have no doubt she won’t lose sight of that goal.  We were so pleasantly surprised with her transition to middle school last year and hope this year she really just keeps up her stride.

10th grade on the other hand is a game changer.  Freshman year is a tough year filled with so much change but it is all in preparation for the year when it really counts.  Grades matter for college, volunteer hours become critical for college applications and despite the fact that there are 3 years of high school left, you need to start thinking about your next step.  These kids barely have a chance to come up for air these days.

Regardless of what grade your kiddos are starting, a new school year brings the chance to start over and really get it right.  For the kids,  it means new classes, new teachers, new friends and new challenges and obstacles.  As parents, it means renewing our love and support for them as they embark on a new journey.  It’s learning how to give them the tools and resources to be successful while knowing where to step back and let them have their independence.  Being a parent is one of the hardest jobs in the world but seeing our kids thrive in school is truly one of the greatest rewards.

As we kick off this new year, I pray for the patience, energy and strength to help my kids be as successful as they can be and ultimately, find their self-confidence to keep growing into the people they will eventually become.  I also pray for their teachers and all the incredible teachers out there who take on this amazing work of transforming them.  Cheers to a great school year friends!