Skills For Middle School Success

Date of Award

Fall 12-17-2025

Document Type

Project (696 or 796 registration)

Degree Name

Master of Science in Special Education

Department

Graduate Studies

Committee Chair

Marci Glessner

Abstract

When students transition from elementary to middle school there is a shift in expectations regarding academics, socialization, and organizational skills. Research demonstrates that preparing students prior to the transition improves independence, engagement, and overall adjustment (Milsom & Glanville, 2010; National Technical Assistance Center on Transition [NTACT], 2016). While reviewing the literature, four themes or skill areas that fifth graders should develop prior to the transition to middle school were discovered: academic preparedness (Cortiella & Horowitz, 2014; Anderson, et al., 2000; Barnes & Vargo, 2022), executive function skills and organization (Jacobson et al., 2011; Barnes & Vargo, 2022), social and behavioral skills (Elias & Mustafa, 2017; Martins et al., 2023) and self-advocacy (Field et al., 2003; McCarthy, 2007). This project highlighted these themes and consisted of a resource for special education teachers, as well as other school staff, to use with lessons for each of the skill areas. Examples of lessons included successfully navigating the school (reading a schedule), executive functioning (desk and locker organization) and academic preparedness (notetaking). The goal of this project was to provide a resource for school staff that helps students feel prepared to have a successful first year in a new learning environment.

Abstract only: No full text available.

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