Just for Grade Nine Parents
A Message from the Class IV Deans
Larry Fitzpatrick and Michaela (Mickey) Steimle
As deans for the IV Class, we are delighted to welcome your children, members of the class of ’12 to Milton Academy. Comprised of 144 students who come from all corners of the world—from Japan to Jamaica Plain—this class will be advised by 23 advisors, both day and boarding, and taught by faculty from every department of the Upper School.
The transition to a new environment can be both thrilling and challenging, and Larry and I are eager to help make the transition as smooth as possible.
The first opening days of school will allow for students to meet new people and renew old friendships and connections. Tours, games, meals, gatherings, and discussions serve as the centerpieces of this time together that we hope will also calm the nerves and heighten the energy as we get ready for classes on September 8.
Our goals for the first weeks of school are to help students begin to gain control over the academic and extra-curricular details of their lives. We are particularly excited about our co-ordination with Julie Badynee, director of the Academic Skills Center, who will be working with IV Class faculty, advisors, and the deans to support students as they work on study skills and time management. Finding a rhythm for this wonderfully enriching year takes a bit of time, and we feel that developing strong “habits of being” from the very beginning will allow for a successful start.
As one student told me last year, the school’s offerings are so varied that she wanted to sign up for everything in sight! Although it is tempting to jump right into every offering, we offer some of these tips. Take the opportunity to weigh and sift some of these choices; talk with the advisor; think about how other commitments will complement the choices; contact us for advice if you wish.
Larry and I are eager to do all that we can to make this year one of the best for your child. We look forward to seeing you on Parents’ Day; the time will fly by.
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