Middle School Students

Getting ready for what comes after middle school is super important! Even though college might feel far away, starting now sets you up for big success later. Middle school is like a launchpad. You get to explore your interests, try new things, and figure out what you’re passionate about. Join clubs and sports or do volunteer work — these experiences help you grow and discover your strengths.

Remember, getting ready for life after high school isn’t just about picking a college or job. It’s about believing in yourself, aiming high and making the most of every opportunity. Let’s get excited to level up and create an amazing future!

Academic and Career Plans (ACP)

Your Academic and Career Plan (ACP) is like your roadmap to reach your dreams. In middle school, you’re taking important steps to connect your interests, skills and goals with the awesome world of careers.

• What’s in Your ACP: Your ACP helps you link what you learn in school to what you want to be when you grow up. It’s not just about classes — it’s about shaping your future success!
• Exploring Pathways: You get to pick a career pathway that matches your interests. A cool career investigations course will show you how your studies, job skills, and goals fit together.
• Plan Like a Pro: Your ACP helps you plan your classes, prepare for work-based learning, and even explore getting certifications in your chosen field.
• Rocking Skills: You’ll learn important skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication — stuff that helps you shine in school and beyond.
• Get Curious: Discover more about jobs you like, how education leads to cool careers, and how your choices can make your life awesome!
• Dream Big: Think about what you enjoy doing and what makes you excited. Your ACP helps you turn those passions into a plan!
• Find Resources: Use your research skills to find information about careers and education. It’s like being a detective, discovering all the amazing options.
• IEPs and You: If you have an Individualized Education Program (IEP), your ACP fits right in. It’s all about making sure your education connects to your future goals. Ask your school counselor how you can make sure your Transition-Focused IEP (your IEP for when you move from middle school to high school) and ACP work together for you!
• Your Future, Your Way: Your ACP gets you ready for high school and beyond. It’s your tool to build a strong foundation for success!

Be curious, be confident. Middle school is just the start of your journey. You’ve got this!

Level Up Resources

Other Resources

Khan Academy - Khan Academy is like a digital classroom in your pocket, and it’s free! It’s packed with videos, quizzes and fun lessons!
Virginia Education Wizard - Helps students explore careers and colleges, discover jobs, plan for their future, build resumes and create their Academic and Career Plan (ACP) all in one place.
Virginia Career View - A website for grades 6–8 that helps students explore careers, plan for the future, and build their Academic and Career Plan with free resources
Virtual Virginia - High-quality digital education for all Virginia K–12 learners—no matter your location or academic history.