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Rising 6th Grade Transition

Moving up from elementary school to middle school is a leap forward, and an exciting time for students and their families.

As students and families near that transition, we know you have questions about what to expect in middle school. Orange County Schools is ready to provide support that works for you and your child.

Principals and counselors are all prepared to meet you and your student and answer any questions to make the transition successful. Events are scheduled for students and families to support you step-by-step through the start of 6th grade and on the road toward high school!

Throughout the spring, OCS middle schools welcome rising 6th grade students and families in a number of ways.

  • Students meet staff and learn what it means to be a middle school student.
  • Tours help students navigate and connect with their future school.
  • Family Nights provide support for parents and guardians to prepare for middle school.
  • Through it all, we provide guidance on course requests so your child can participate in electives and activities that launch them into 6th grade!

Support for Rising 6th Grade Students and Families

English

Rising 6th Grade Transition Timeline Spring Fall 2025 ENG

 

Spanish

Rising 6th Grade Transition Timeline Spring Fall 2025 ESP

 

Upcoming Events

Middle School Tours for Students

On Wednesday, April 16 from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., students take a tour of their base middle school*. All 5th grade students will take their tours at the same time. 

Students will get the chance to: 

  • Meet students, teachers, staff, and administrators 
  • Learn about life as a middle school student 
  • Learn about athletics and other extracurricular activities 
  • Get resources and answers to their questions 
  • and more!
*BASE SCHOOL IS BASED ON THE STUDENT'S HOME ADDRESS.
 

Family Night for Parents and Students

On Tuesday, April 22 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., all three OCS middle schools welcome parents and guardians to: 

  • Meet teachers, staff, and administrators 
  • Learn about elective course options 
  • Learn about athletics and other extracurricular activities
  • Get resources and answers to their questions
  • and more!

Be sure to join us and learn all you can to support your student! Attend Family Night and you will be ready to help your student choose course pathways as early as April 22!

*School tours for families will not be available. 

Course Requests

Students preparing for sixth grade will not select their core classes. However, students are able to choose their elective courses. Middle school counselors will visit elementary schools from April 28 to May 2 to help rising 6th graders select their electives.

Be sure to join your middle school for Family Night, and be ready to help your student choose course pathways as early as April 22!

Elective Course Guides (By School)

Elective Course Guides are available in both English and Spanish.

"Preparing for Middle School" March 13

Click the images below to enlarge. Click here for a downloadable flyer.

OCS Family Academy Preparing for Middle School March 2025
OCS Family Academy Preparing for Middle School March 2025

Check out this presentation from the OCS Family Academy: A Night with OCS Principals! In this presentation, you and your student will gain valuable information about the transition to middle school and other useful tips! 

Click here to view the presentation in english and spanish.

Visit Middle School Websites

School Counselor Information

If you have further questions, please contact your child's school counselors.