EIGHTH-GRADE PLANNING CHECKLIST

Get ready for high school, one step at a time.

Explore what you enjoy, build a routine, and know where to ask for help. Spread these steps across the year. You don’t need a college list, a test score, or a perfect plan to begin.

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Explore two interests

Learning what you enjoy helps you choose activities that fit.

Done looks like: Write two interests and one activity you could try for each.

Prepare for high-school courses

A little preparation makes the transition easier.

Done looks like: Save three questions about next year’s courses for your counselor.

Choose one study habit

A manageable routine gives you room to explore.

Done looks like: Describe one habit and when you will try it this week.

Check your high-school transition dates

Your school is the best source for local requirements and dates.

Done looks like: Find your school’s course-selection or orientation information and record the next date to check with your counselor.

Talk through your ninth-grade courses

A balanced schedule should fit your interests, preparation, and support needs.

Done looks like: Review your course questions with a counselor or trusted school adult and record one next action.

Find your support team

Knowing who to ask makes new situations easier to handle.

Done looks like: Write down a trusted adult at home and a school contact you can ask for help.

Try one activity that interests you

You can explore without committing to everything.

Done looks like: Choose a club, hobby, creative project, or community activity and record how you will try it.

Plan a small contribution

Helping with something you care about is a useful way to learn.

Done looks like: Choose an age-appropriate way to help at home, school, or in your community, and check arrangements with a trusted adult.

Make room for reading or a project

Curiosity matters beyond grades.

Done looks like: Choose a book, topic, or small project and plan a first 15-minute session.

Start a record of your experiences

A simple record helps you remember what you tried and learned.

Done looks like: Save one activity or achievement in your journal, including what you did and one thing you learned.

Sketch a balanced summer plan

Rest and time with friends belong alongside exploration.

Done looks like: List one interest to explore, one practical preparation step, and time to rest. Check any program’s age rules, cost, and transport with a trusted adult.

Check in before high school begins

Your plan can change as you learn more about yourself.

Done looks like: Talk with a parent or trusted adult about one thing you feel ready for, one question, and your first next step.

These are planning suggestions. Your school’s dates and course requirements come first. Ask your counselor or a trusted adult about what fits your situation.

Go to My Next Steps ↗