Bodies, Brains, & Besties: Student Perspectives On Making The Transition From Elementary To Middle School

Early adolescence is a time filled with transitions. Students experience a change in school location, physical and emotional development, and new social expectations and challenges. Many schools address the academic needs of students and functions of the school when creating transition programs. Few studies have explored student perspectives to understand the social-emotional needs of students during this crucial transition in life. This study used Youth Participatory Action Research to examine student perspectives on the transition into middle school and identified a key challenge faced by current sixth grade students. The challenge was addressed through the creation of a transition program designed by seventh and eighth grade students. The study provides practical solutions that will aid middle school educators when communicating with students and creating transition programs.