Embrace the Journey: Navigating Transitions as the School Year Winds Down

Hello CLHS students & families,

We’ve made it to June—and whether it feels like a relief, a rush, or a blur, the end of the school year is here. With it comes change: some of you are graduating, some are moving on to new grades, summer jobs, or even new schools. This month, we’re talking about transitions—those moments of change that can feel exciting, emotional, uncertain, or even overwhelming.

As your school counsellors, we want you to know that it’s okay to have mixed feelings about what’s ahead. Change isn’t always easy, but it’s also where growth happens. Whether you’re stepping into something brand new or just shifting gears for the summer, this is your reminder: you are capable of handling what comes next.

Let’s talk about how to navigate these transitions with confidence and care.

Embracing Transitions: What You Need to Know

Change can bring a wide range of emotions—hope, fear, sadness, excitement. All of them are valid. Transitions might include:

• Moving from one grade to another

• Starting high school or post-secondary

• Graduating and leaving familiar routines

• Changes in friendships, home life, or goals

• Starting a new job or summer plan

Understanding that these moments are normal (and temporary) can help you face them with more ease.

Tips for Navigating Change

1. Acknowledge How You Feel
   It’s okay to feel nervous, excited, or uncertain. Don’t ignore your feelings—explore them. Talk to someone you trust, or write them out.

2. Focus on What You Can Control
   When things feel overwhelming, try to focus on the parts of the change that you can influence—like your mindset, your choices, and your attitude.

3. Reflect on Past Transitions
   Think about other changes you've navigated before. What helped you? What did you learn? Remind yourself that you’ve done hard things before—and you can again.

4. Stay Connected
   Transitions can feel isolating, so make time for the people who support you. Whether it’s a friend, a teacher, or a family member, connection makes change easier.

5. Give Yourself Time
   Adjusting takes time. Be patient with yourself and others. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away.

Student Challenge: Create a "Looking Ahead" List

This month, take 10 minutes to create a personal “Looking Ahead” list. Divide a page into two columns:

• Things I’m Looking Forward To

• Things I’m Nervous About

For each worry, jot down one thing you can do to feel more prepared—or someone you can talk to. This simple activity can help bring clarity and balance to your thoughts.

Reflection Prompt

What’s one thing you’re proud of from this year—and one hope you have for the next chapter?

Explore More

For tips on handling transitions and stress, check out https://teenmentalhealth.org. It’s a helpful resource for students navigating change, emotions, and the ups and downs of growing up.

Transitions may feel uncertain, but they also hold new beginnings. Whatever your next steps look like, trust that you’re growing, learning, and becoming more of who you’re meant to be. You don’t need to have it all figured out—just take the next step, one moment at a time.

We’re proud of you. We believe in you. And we’re here if you need support along the way.