S.M.A.R.T. Goals = Big Wins 

The start of a new school year for middle school students and parents can feel like a whole new world—new teachers, new classes, new friends, and a new routine. For some it’s exciting, and for others, it can feel overwhelming. One way to help your child stay focused and motivated is by encouraging them to set meaningful goals. When students create and work towards goals during the school year, they develop responsibility and confidence.  

What’s the best way for middle schoolers to set goals? 

Creating a healthy balance in a middle schooler’s life is key to their overall well-being. Support them by helping them set goals each quarter in school, allowing students to see a quick result and giving them an opportunity to re-evaluate before setting next quarter’s goals. Encourage them to set short-term and long-term S.M.A.R.T. goals for academics, as well as activities and interests outside of school.  

What is a S.M.A.R.T. Goal?  

A SMART goal is a goal that’s designed to be clear, realistic, and trackable. 

The acronym SMART stands for: 

• S – Specific: What exactly will you do? 

• M – Measurable: How will you know you will meet your goal? 

• A – Achievable: Can you actually do it? 

• R – Relative: How much does it mean to you? 

• T – Timely: When will you accomplish your goal?  

Choosing a S.M.A.R.T. Goal 

• Focus on goals that your child can achieve each quarter in school, including both short-term and long-term. A short-term goal can be accomplished in one week, breaking it into smaller daily steps that can be reached each day. Long-term goals are bigger and can be reached in a month or at the end of the quarter. 

• Brainstorm ideas using the S.M.A.R.T. Goal Think Sheet. 

• Help your child map out a plan of action for their short-term and long-term goals using the Goal Sheets. What steps will they take and who can help them along the way? Create a plan to fit your students’ needs for the short-term tasks or bigger, long-term goals. 

• Write a S.M.A.R.T. Goal. 

Tracking your S.M.A.R.T. Goals 

Once your child has created their S.M.A.R.T. goals, post their goal sheet somewhere visible—like the fridge, a bulletin board, or their study space. This daily reminder keeps the goal front and center and encourages accountability. 

With the My S.M.A.R.T. Goal Tracking Sheet, parents can stay involved by regularly checking in on their progress, discussing how their goal is coming along, and helping them make adjustments as needed. 

Evaluate short-term goals together each week, and revisit long-term goals monthly or quarterly, depending on the time frame your child set during their goal planning. This regular check-in helps them stay on track and shows them that you’re invested in their success.