How to Survive the Year

At the end of last year, I asked the 8th graders what advice they would give to the students next year.  I wasn't sure how serious they would take it...but the answers weren't surprising.
But what surprised me was that so many of these answers could relate to any point in life.

Though I'm going to take their advice and try to get a little more sleep tonight, but it's not easy.  I enjoy staying up late...but somehow, we'll all survive.



Way to Survive 8th Grade (According to 8th Graders):
**All emphasis is from students, not me. ;)

Don't talk about someone in a bad way (gossip/rumors)
Stay organized
Get involved
Own up to your mistakes
Turn in work on-time
Don't look at the clock because it makes time go slower
Don't take stuff too seriously
Find some good friends that are REAL and stick with them
Don't be that person who dates EVERY girl or guy
Be yourself
Don't be fake
Be honest
Get sleep
Stay after and come in the morning
Don't get involved in drugs
Find who your friends are
Do you work- Even the little things add up
STUDY!!
Stay out of trouble
Make friends
Be nice to everyone
Not leading boys on
Make sure you bring your own food- NOT the school's food
Get help
Don't start drama-if you hear rumors, don't spread them
Don't lie
Remember, if you're going through a hard time,
                       keep your head up and think that every little thing is going to be okay
Violence isn't the answer- it just gets you into more trouble
Don't give up
Pay attention
Don't skip class
Surround yourself with GREAT friends
Girls, don't focus on guys
Guys, don't focus on girls
Don't procrastinate
Show a decent amount of respect
Don't make eye contact
Don't talk to anyone, ever
Be original
If you are going to date, actually like the person!
Find a couple good friend-quality, not quantity
Make good relationships with teachers
Know your locker combination
Get involved
Pick reliable friends
Be on-time
Play at least one sport
If you have a question, ASK THE TEACHER!
Good binders
Be nice to the 7th and 6th graders
Bring supplies
Do you work, ALL OF IT!
Be nice to teachers
Don't give in to pressure
Bring back-up pants and female supplies!
Nice guys DO NOT finish last
Separate you real friends from your fake
Bring own lunch...don't eat prison food
Try to always keep a good attitude
Watch what you wear
If you have a problem with someone, confront them nicely or walk away
Do homework. I know it's boring, but just do it

The most common response:
Stay out of the drama!
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I think that's a good reminder for everyone.
No one needs drama in their life, so don't stir it up.
Just be yourself and for goodness sake, please, please be nice to your teacher.
Have a great school year!