Horizon to High School

The 8th grade celebration is a ceremony to congratulate your child for finishing elementary school and getting ready for their high school adventure! We are proud of your child as they reach this important milestone in their life. Your child will learn new things in high school as they work toward getting a diploma. Your child will also prepare for college, jobs, and their future. As we look toward your child’s Horizon to High School, we open a new chapter in their lives and commitment to their new high school motto:

East Union High School - “Lancer’s Lead”
Lathrop High School - “Respect the Shield”
Manteca High School - “Honor the Code”
Sierra High School - “Victory with Honor”
Weston Ranch High School - “Cougars Rising”

We want to make sure your 8th grade child is successful and meets the required standards to participate in celebration activities.

Academics

• Demonstrate steady growth and progress toward grade-level standards.
• Have a cumulative GPA of 1.0 or better. 

Students may have no F’s during the 3rd trimester of their 8th grade year regardless of GPA.

Behavior

• Demonstrate positive and responsible behavior throughout the school year.
• Have no more than 4 “U”’s in Citizenship on any report throughout the school year.
• Have no disciplinary action for severe incidents of the school rules or district policy.

Attendance

• Has regular attendance during the school year. 

Requirements may be waived based on principal discretion and on MUSD Policies.

If a student does not meet the requirements, they will miss the celebration and/or other related activities. 

A student may be retained or placed at a site other than a comprehensive high school at the discretion of the elementary principal and as appropriate for each student.

If a student does not make sufficient progress toward meeting celebration requirements during the school year, they may be kept from participating in extra-curricular activities such as: programs, sports, dances, trips, etc. 

School staff will communicate with the parents and/or guardians of students who are at risk through the Student Success Team process.

If you have questions or concerns regarding your child’s celebration status, contact your child’s homeroom teacher or principal.

More than ever, you continue to play an active role in your child’s education. Help your child meet the 8th Grade Celebration Requirements by fostering positive attitudes about learning new skills and setting goals with your child’s teacher. 

Setting goals and celebrating growth, together. You see a bright future for your child and so do we! Here’s what you can do to support education at home:

• Make sure your child reads for at least one hour a week.
• Have your child spend 30 minutes a day on Exact Path to practice different subjects.
• Practice math fluency with your child by using flashcards and doing practice problems out of their textbook.
• Encourage your child to stay organized by storing homework and handouts in a safe place like a folder or binder. 
• Show interest in what your child is learning! Your investment in their schooling will encourage them.
• Talk about responsibility with your child. As your child prepares for high school, it is important they understand the significance of academics and good character.
• Regularly check Parent Connect and engage in conversation with your child’s teacher to support growth and success.

What students are doing: As they embark on freshman year, students are navigating a larger campus and learning about class and extracurricular opportunities, such as sports and clubs. Students review their progress with their counselor and start to initiate a plan to help maintain success and reach their goals. 

How parents can help from home: Talk to your child about which classes they’re enjoying and areas they are struggling with so you can help them set and maintain academic goals. Encourage good study habits and communication skills.

What students are doing: During their sophomore year, students begin to capitalize on their interests and focus on exploring course and pathway options with their counselor.   

How parents can help from home: Continue to check in with your child about their evolving interests and encourage them to challenge themselves by getting more involved at school and in the community. They could take an exciting CTE class, join a new club, or audition for theater or band.

What students are doing: Throughout their junior year, students work to narrow down options and career goals after high school. 11th grade is the best time to attend college fairs and visit campuses and programs of interest. Students work with their counselors to register for courses that will set them up for a solid senior year to be better prepared for life after high school. 

How parents can help from home: Check in with your child’s teachers and counselor to discuss their ongoing progress. These conversations can often lead to great ideas about opportunities your child can pursue after they finish high school! 

What students are doing: As they reach senior year, students work to confirm plans after high school and meet with their counselor to discuss important deadlines, dates, and requirements. They also participate in traditional end-of-school activities and celebrations! 

How parents can help from home: As senior year is a critical time for your child, try to attend and participate in school-sponsored Parent Nights and Workshops that will provide helpful information and support!