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Nurture A Successful Norman

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THE TRANSITION BACK TO SCHOOL

Beginning the journey into Beverly Hills High School or returning after summer break can be both exciting and anxiety-producing. Students may worry about classes, grades, friends and peer-pressure.  We encourage parents to become knowledgeable about Beverly in order to better answer questions, offer guidance, and calm your teen’s fears. Below are a few resources to help you learn more about BHHS services, programs and resources.

 BECOME FAMILIAR WITH BHHS

 

BE BHHS'S BIGGEST FAN!

“Children’s attitudes about education and school are, to a great extent, determined by what their parents say and do.” (O’Brian, 2010)

It is crucial that parents collaborate with school personnel. Do not talk poorly of administrators, counselors, teachers or other staff members in front of your teen. Your attitude can either reinforce or negate school values. We all need be on the same team; our number one goal is helping your child be the BEST that he or she can be. We are very fortunate to have an incredible staff who are available to support your teen academically, personally, and socially. Parents MUST support our school and staff in order for teens to trust and respect school personnel.

WORK WITH BHHS TO RESOLVE CONFLICTS

“Parents and teachers need to remember that they can best help a student succeed when they work together as a team.” (O’Brian, 2010)

Beverly Hills High School team members want all students to succeed. Parents play an essential role in fostering and supporting a child’s academic success. Students need to adapt to different expectations, communication, and teaching styles. We want our students to be resilient and learn how to succeed in all classes even when struggling with subject matter or teaching style. If your child complains about a class or staff member, stay objective and try not to use blame or put-downs. Before forming an opinion, communicate with the staff member. Be open and listen; share any concerns, suggestions, or feedback with your child. If you continue to have concerns about a teacher, consult with your teens school counselor.  If you feel you need to make a complaint about a teacher, please follow the teacher complaint process.

BE A PART OF THE NORMAN TEAM

  • Insist that your child respect BHHS staff members
  • Make sure your teen is in school, on time, every day
  • Encourage your teen to apply him/herself and do his/her best
  • Talk about the importance of getting a good education
  • Respect rules and ensure that your teen follows them
  • Attend school functions
  • Check current grades and communicate regularly with teachers
 
TIPS FROM OUR TEACHERS, COUNSELORS AND STUDENTS ON HOW PARENTS CAN HELP THEIR TEENS SUCCEED AT BEVERLY HILLS HIGH SCHOOL
 

 Tips from BHHS Teachers

  • “Visit Google Classroom and/or ask your teen for the current grade in the class and for current assignments before asking the teacher, as most students know how they are doing.”
  • “Stress the importance of students taking responsibility.”
  • “Stress importance of academics and proper classroom behavior.”
  • “Watch for warning signs, e.g., “I don’t have any homework.
  •  “Use email to keep in touch with teachers. Don’t wait for major problems to develop before making contact.”
  • “Watch for our progress reports every five weeks and pay special attention to the teacher comments on them.”
  • “Get students reading now as much as possible. Make a special date to go to the bookstore or the library. Have a summer reading expectation in the home.”
  • “Attendance matters! Both tardies and absences affect the student’s performance and the class environment.”

Tips from BHHS Counselors

  • “Have students complete a certain amount of studying each day, even after the day’s homework is finished.”
  • “Encourage students to meet personally with teachers often to communicate about their struggles or questions.”
  •  “Make sure all technology is turned off and away during daily study time.”
  • “Refer your teen to the NormanAid Wellness Center if you feel he/she is experiencing personal challenges that may impact him/her in the classroom.”
  • “Recognize your teen’s effort and acknowledge each academic success.”
  • “Utilize 7th period and meet with your teachers for academic support.”
  • “Attend BHHS parent programs, parent workshops, and parent nights.”
  • "Prioritize yours and your teens mental health."

 

Tips From BHHS Students

  • “Stay connected with your kids.”
  • “Help your kids understand that it’s important to do well for the sake of doing well.”
  • “Make sure your kids are dressed appropriately.”
  • “Love your kids for everything they are and everything they’re not.”
  • “Allow your teen to have a balanced school and social life.”
  • “Talk about the difference between learning and getting the grade.”
  • “Talk with your teen about drugs, alcohol and sex.”
  • “Familiarize yourself with the staff.”
  •  “Let your kids know you’re always there and don’t be judgmental of what they tell you.”

 

HAVE A DISCUSSION ABOUT BHHS MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

 

Teens need an adult with whom they can talk openly. They should not be left to rely solely on other teens for important information, conversation, and help with problem solving about how to grow up wisely. It would be helpful if parents tell their teens that they have permission to use NormanAid's counseling services if they are needed and that there is nothing to be ashamed of. Communicate that if they work with a mental health professional you will not ask them questions as to what they discussed. Teens need to know that their parents want them to share their emotions and will be given the privacy to do so. Students who are in need of counseling but do not feel comfortable asking may not seek support and rely solely on other teens for help with problem solving. Lack of intervention could increase the risks of your teen engaging in risky behaviors.

 

Some teens may not feel comfortable receiving counseling from the NormanAid Wellness Center and/or some teens may need outside services; visit the "Get Support" page for a list of mental health services. Talk with your school counselor, or BHHS Wellness Counselor if you would like additional referrals. 

 

“Even the best informed teens are constantly tested by social pressures, emotional needs and their peers. A caring adult can make all the difference in a child’s life” BHHS counselor
 

FOSTER CONFIDENCE AND RESPONSIBILITY 

 

Take a step back so your teen can be independent and responsible. Students are expected to be more independent and more responsible than they were in middle school. Teens are learning to take care of themselves as they enter adulthood. High school is a perfect opportunity for teens to practice advocating for themselves. We urge students to take the initiative to meet with their teachers and counselors on their own and to advocate for themselves as often as possible. We encourage parents to gently step back and allow their adolescents to step forward. This independence will build confidence in your teen and will prepare him/her for college. Although your role as a parent will likely change, it is important that you continue to be involved in your teen’s life throughout high school to ensure that he/she is making good choices and decisions.

 

Encourage you students to learn about Becoming a Norman

 
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