The Byron-Bergen Board of Education and Parent Teachers Association has proclaimed October to be the Month of the Young Adolescent. Initiated by National Middle School Association (NMSA) and endorsed by more than 40 other national organizations focusing on youth, the event is designed to bring attention to the important needs of young adolescents. "Youth between the ages of approximately 10 to 15 years undergo more extensive physical, mental, social, moral, and emotional changes, with the possible exception of infancy, than at any other time of life," the proclamation reads. "The attitudes and values young adolescents develop during these formative years largely determine their later behavior." During the Month of the Young Adolescent, NMSA hopes to provide parents and other adults with information on how they can support the natural maturation process of 10- to 15-year-olds, including educational, health and social development. These proclamations call upon all citizens to support young adolescents. In an effort to support a long term commitment to young adolescents, the Byron-Bergen PTA has provided the Middle School with startup money for a Parent Resource Center. The money will be used to purchase books, videos and other items that will be available for parents to sign out. "All of us have a responsibility to support young adolescents," said Gregory Macaluso, Middle School House Principal. "These years can be tough for both young adolescents and those closest to them. However, they still need the support of parents and adults. We must understand that they are entering a natural maturation process, and we need to learn how to work with them." For further information on the Month of the Young Adolescent and how to support 10- to 15-year-olds, contact NMSA at 1-800-528-NMSA or visit their web sight at www.nmsa.org. |
