This week-long course is designed to help incoming 7th & 8th grade Pacific Ridge students develop the skills needed to be successful in middle school.  Students will improve classroom skills such as writing, note taking, active reading, collaborative learning, and Harkness discussion skills. They will also learn productivity strategies and tools such as organization, time management, test preparation, goal setting, motivation and concentration. By introducing and using the technological platforms required of them during the year, such as their Pacific Ridge email account, PowerSchool Learning, and Google Drive, students will be ready to hit the ground running on the first day of school. Students will also leave with a clear understanding of the various academic and student support services available on campus. The transition to a new school and into middle school is exciting and fun, but it can also be challenging for students. This course is designed to help new Firebirds with the transition and to help them fine-tune some of the skills they will need in middle school.