There are many periods of transition throughout a child's educational development.  In the Timberlane School District there is the transition from the home, pre-school or kindergarten to first grade.  For residents of Sandown, there is the transition from Sandown North (grades 1-3) to Sandown Central School (grades 4-5).  All fifth graders in the district transition from their respective elementary schools to the middle school to begin sixth grade.  Eighth graders transition from the middle school to the high school to begin ninth grade. Seniors in high school transition from high school to college, technical schools, the military, the workforce, etc.  Each of these transitions involves change and sometimes a fear of the unknown. 

The Timberlane Regional  School District Transition Committee was formed in the 2000 - 2001 school year to fulfill the following mission:

• Identify the Timberlane School District’s current transition activities
• Make recommendations to enhance current transition activities
• Promote the development of new initiatives aimed at the improvement and growth for students, schools, and parents involved in the transition process

The District Transition Committee is comprised of educators, counselors, parents, administrators and a school board member.  Each school in the district is represented on the Committee and the group meets on a monthly basis to discuss issues and work toward meeting the Committee’s goals.  Though the process of transition from one school to another may seem straightforward, there are many tasks and events that occur behind the scenes to ensure that records and files are complete and make a smooth transition with the students.

Many goals established by the committee have already been met.  As you explore other links on this page you will see the outcome of some of the goals.

Develop a Transition Committee for grades 5 & 6 and grades 8 & 9

Committee has been established

Appoint members to either the 5/6 or 8/9 subcommittee for the purpose of implementing plans and analyzing tasks to be undertaken

Subcommittees have been established and meet on a monthly basis.  Both subcommittees come together 2-3 times per year for a full committee progress report

Review and identify specific current practices related to grades 5/6 and 8/9 transition activities

Current practices have been identified and work is ongoing to identify best practices and implement changes to improve the transition process

Develop a survey which will focus on the upcoming school year and circulate to parents, students and staff

A survey was developed and distributed.  See Survey Results link for outcomes and changes that have been implemented based upon the survey results

Develop a website for transition information

A web page has been linked from the Middle School web page

The Committee will continue to focus on specific goals to help construct a meaningful and comprehensive transition program throughout the district.  A successful transition program, which includes academic, social and emotional awareness of all transition activities, requires the involvement of parents, students, staff, counselors and administrators.

Your input is important to us.  If you have questions, comments, or ideas about how the transition process can be improved, please contact Mr. Doug Rolph, District Transition Committee Chairman, at drolph@sandownschool.com or Mrs. Marilyn Hutnick at marilyn.hutnick@timberlane.net.