CITY OF TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WKBW) — As students head back to school this week, there's some important information parents need to know before their child starts the new year.
"I've been a teacher here, this is going to be my 26th year teaching," Kim Jacklewski said. "I teach grades 7th and 8th grade special education."
City of Tonawanda Middle School teacher Kim Jachlewski said she's ready to start another school year.
"Talk to your children," said Jachlewski. "Ask them pointed questions. Ask them what they are excited for. What are they looking forward to this school year? What are you most nervous about this school year?"
She said it's important to return to a better sleep schedule and reminds parents about the challenges middle school students face.
"I think it's the fear of belonging and fitting in. They're worried about who they hung out with over the summer, who they didn't hang with, who's new in the building or if they are new to the district," Jachlewski said.
From middle school to high school, City of Tonawanda High School teacher Joshua Maier said it's important to have a positive mindset.
"One thing I would encourage parents, grandparents, guardians to do is really kind of build that excitement for their students," Maier said. "Making sure that they're in that, you know, proper mental state and just like really, really excited for the school year."
Both teachers tell me the best you can do is to be engaged with your children.
"I think I get the back-to-school jitters just like the kids do," Jachlewski said.
