A comprehensive planning framework and resource package for hosting an interactive parent information night for 7th, 8th, and 9th-grade transitions. Contains a facilitator guide, visual slides, a speaking script, and an interactive family activity worksheet.
"What is one goal you have for this year that has nothing to do with grades, and what kind of support do you need from me to reach it?"
For the Family
"What is one strength you saw your student demonstrate this summer that will help them navigate this upcoming transition?"
Take out your Family Connection Worksheet and complete Section A now (10 minutes).
Dialogue creates deep understanding. Listen first, resolve second.
Slide 5 of 7
Co-Creating the Covenant
COMMITMENT
Building a Written Pact
The most successful transition plans are explicit. When families write down concrete promises about sleep, study spaces, and problem-solving mechanisms, success rates dramatically double.
The Covenant Formula:
"When things get tough academically or socially, we promise that our first response as a family will be ________ instead of ________."
Interactive Instructions
1
Turn over your Family Connection Worksheet to Side 2.
2
Identify one strategy from our roadmap (e.g., quiet study hours, self-advocacy drills).
3
Both student and parent/guardian co-sign the physical pact to solidify commitment.
A written agreement is a physical anchor during stressful moments.
Slide 6 of 7
Next Steps & Alliances
DEPARTURE
Your Summit Checklist
Review the grade-level syllabus together tonight
Log in to the school portal to set alert parameters
Thank you for embarking on this journey with us. Let's make it an extraordinary transition!
Slide 7 of 7
Slide 5: Active Family Discussion TIME: 40–60m
[ACTION: Prompt families to use Section A of their handouts. Play instrumental background tracks.]
"Now, it’s time to move from listeners to active partners. Families, look at Section A on your Family Connection Tracker. Students, we want you to answer the first question honestly for your parents. Parents, share a key strength you saw in your child this summer. Take exactly ten minutes to have this private table-level chat. Our counseling and administrative staff will rotate around your circles to answer any transition questions in real time. Begin."
Slide 6: Co-Creating the Covenant TIME: 60–75m
[ACTION: Hold up a physical workbook showing Side 2.]
"Now, flip your trackers over to Side 2. Here lies the core of our work tonight: The Horizon Covenant. This is a mutually agreed contract about physical habits and restorative habits. Fill out the promises together: what quiet hours will look like, how you will handle tough academic weeks, and how you will communicate. Once completed, both student and parent must sign. Keep this in a visible place at home, like on your refrigerator, to serve as an anchor when school gets hectic."
Slide 7: Next Steps & Alliances TIME: 75–80m
[ACTION: Highlight counselor email directory on the screen.]
"As we wind down, here are your immediate departure targets. First, review a course syllabus together tonight. Second, verify your online parent portal details. Lastly, complete the exit evaluation form at the exit doors before grabbing a quick refreshment. The contact info for your grade-level transition coordinators is right here on the slide—please save it. We are thrilled to partner with you. Let’s make this an incredible transitional year together. Have a wonderful night!"
