It is 9 a.m. and the large green doors of the Ségurane middle school finally open to the hundred or so schoolchildren who, in a matter of seconds, will become full-fledged middle school students.
This year, Thomas will start his school year in a new realm of the grown-ups, and like most of his classmates, he swallows slowly as he looks at the majestic building situated on the street of the same name, bearing that of the most famous Niçoise, Catherine Ségurane.
The door is now wide open, and the bravest students cross it, leaving their parents on the doorstep, as proud as they are anxious. It is at this moment that the Principal of the middle school, Mr. Verdier, arrives and grants a privilege that meets with unanimous approval, for despite the security measures of the Vigipirate plan, he allows the visibly relieved parents to accompany their offspring into the courtyard for the roll call and class assignments. “It’s impressive, especially since it’s much bigger than my school. Is every window a classroom? I hope I’ll find my way around?” The anxiety lessens a bit, but the questions remain.
The microphone crackled its first sounds to welcome the newcomers, and emphasis was put on behavior within the premises and surrounding areas of the school, with a new feature this year: A grade based on students’ behavior in the school.
“It doesn’t change much from my school because we already had a grade for how we behaved in class and at school.”
Thomas will eventually be in 6th grade A, and he is a little disappointed not to be in the same class as his former schoolmates, but recess and lunchtime will allow them to reconnect, share their impressions, and tell each other the stories of the day. “It was hard not to be with Remy, but the students in my class seem really nice; we’ll get to know each other over time.”
A few hours later, it will be time for the meeting with the parents, and then at 3 p.m., when the large green doors open a second time to release these new middle schoolers, smiles have replaced the morning frowns. “I am very happy and can’t wait for Wednesday to start following my schedule.”
A time that will undoubtedly be precious for this crucially important entry into secondary education.
