Junior High Resources
Today’s junior high students are living in an exciting, yet sometimes daunting time. They are experiencing a more diverse society, new technologies, and increasing demands and opportunities. They are also presented with more academic, personal and social challenges. To ensure that our students are prepared to become the next generation of employees, leaders, parents and citizens, we recognize that they will need appropriate support and guidance. The knowledge, skills and attitudes that students acquire in the areas of academic, career and personal/social development during their junior high years serve as building blocks for future success.
Support and programs are available in these areas for junior high students:
- Academic skills support
- Goal setting and decision-making
- Career awareness and exploration*
- Understanding self and others
- Peer relationships and social skills
- Communication, problem-solving and conflict resolution
- Individual Personal Learning Plans**
Junior high students will begin using SDMyLife, an excellent online resource that helps students better understand themselves and how their interests, skills, abilities and knowledge relate to real-world academic and career choices.
South Dakota students use SDMyLife to research, select, and plan their careers. To find a good match, students take interest and ability assessments. They can explore by career cluster, keyword, or school subject. Students can also research post-secondary education and training options, build a portfolio, study with Method Test Prep and find out about scholarships opportunities.
*A Career Interest Assessment is required in 8th grade. Teachers use an assessment available through SDMyLife and it is administered in the classroom.
**A Personal Learning Plan (PLP) is developed by 8th grade students as a way to help students achieve short- and long-term learning goals. The PLP will most likely be modified several times throughout high school.