MONTGOMERY CO., Va. – Starting at a new school is nerve-wracking for any kid. Montgomery County Public Schools tried something new this year to make that transition a little easier — and it worked.
The district held its first-ever transition day on Monday, giving kindergartners, sixth graders and ninth graders a chance to explore their new schools before the official first day. Students had the full building to themselves, with all staff on hand to help them get settled.
Superintendent Kelly Guempel said the idea came from her experience in another school division — and from two teachers at Blacksburg High School who came to her with concerns about ninth grade transitions…