Advice to Students New to the Upper School at MVS

Advice to Students New to the Upper School at MVS

Greetings! The transition to the Upper School at the Miami Valley School presents many exciting opportunities to new and continuing students; however, as with many transitions, we recognize that students may also encounter challenges in adjusting. Besides simply moving from our Middle School or another school to the Upper School at MVS, for many, the expectations of our college preparatory program are intense, as the work becomes progressively more analytical and conceptual. It is important, therefore, for new students to recognize quickly the expectations that will be placed upon them, establish healthy and productive study habits to meet those expectations, gauge the time necessary to succeed, recognize the various support resources available to them, and employ responsible behaviors that will contribute to a purposeful, enjoyable experience during the first year of high school and in subsequent years. Here are a few helpful suggestions which, though by no means comprehensive, students and parents should be mindful of:

1. Get to know your Academic Advisor, Class Dean, and Head of Upper School. These adults will prove to be great advocates. The purpose of the Advisory Program is to facilitate communication between MVS and home in providing individual contact and support for each student. Advisory Groups meet at least once a month; Academic Advisors will schedule two formal parent conferences a year, and can be contacted by voice or e.mail as questions arise.

2. Ask lots of questions. If you need clarification on a topic or require assistance in determining a solution to a problem, ask your Academic Advisor, a teacher, peers, Class Dean, or Head of Upper School.

3. Be proactive. Seek out your teachers and your Academic Advisor for extra assistance, establishing a regular meeting time for support, should you need it. Approach teachers before you feel anxious, rather than enduring through a problem. Although your schedule may not align perfectly with that of a teacher's, faculty members are approachable and eager to meet with you. Should you require further academic support, the Class Dean may assign you to a study hall, monitored by a faculty member. For most students, though, “free” periods allow ample time for attaining extra help, though you need to be active in seeking and clarifying the help you need.

4. Go the extra distance. Homework and daily preparation for classes are important keys to succeeding in the Upper School; however, if you simply “do” your homework by cursory reading, writing, or quick review, you may encounter surprises. Completing your homework means following up on materials covered in class, actively reviewing class notes, outlining and taking notes on reading, and mapping out strategies and schedules for longer term assignments.

5. On average, ½ to ¾ of an hour’s worth of study is normal for each of your classes, with obvious variance to this rule. Two to four hours of homework an evening is realistic, although at “crunch times” you may have more. Remember to balance your desire to do well academically with the value of being involved in other MVS activities, as well as the importance of family time and the freedom to lead a “normal” teenage life.

6. Take time to review the many academic, extracurricular, athletic, and co-curricular offerings in the Upper School; get involved in at least one activity. Students who are involved in the MVS community tend to adjust more quickly.

7. While being with friends is an important facet of the school day, it is suggested early in the year that you establish good habits regarding the use of your time. The “free” periods that you have in your schedule are designed to encourage you in being independent and self-reliant. While we value the balance of freedom and responsibility here at MVS, much of your time during free periods should be used productively for studying, seeking help, or working on extracurricular activities. Students new to the Upper School (including freshmen) may be assigned to at least one proctored study hall after the Fall Trimester mid-term. Reserve some time to be with friends and relax, but make sure you apportion your time for appropriate school related work.

8. Don’t let your work pile up. If you find yourself falling behind, seek out your teacher or Academic Advisor right away to develop a strategy for correcting the problem. Do not wait until you feel overwhelmed to seek assistance.

9. Know that you are not alone. There is a network of support here for you (and your parents). This network includes fellow students, as well as teachers and administrators. We have a full-time counselor who can provide assistance and advice to students, as well as a skills specialist to help with academic support. Do not hesitate to approach the school counselor if you have concerns for yourself or your peers.

10. Don’t worry—everything becomes familiar fairly quickly here at MVS. Enjoy the newness of joining the upper school community. We all bring our individual talents to this culture of thinkers, learners, and citizens. We excited that you have joined us here in the Upper School at MVS!

On behalf of the students and faculty members, we look forward to formally welcoming you to the Upper School in the months to come.

With sincere regards,


Samuel Wagner, V
Head of Upper School