Student Transition to 6th Grade

Rising 6th Graders for the 2026 - 2027 School Year

Dear Parents and Guardians:

As your child finishes 5th grade, it’s hard to believe it’s already time to start thinking about the transition to Wood Oaks! While we want students to continue enjoying and focusing on their Shabonee School experience, we also want to share information about the transition activities planned for fifth-grade students and families.

These activities are designed to help make the move to Wood Oaks smooth, comfortable, and exciting, setting students up for three successful years ahead. We look forward to meeting you and partnering with your family—please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Sincerely,

Cari Beake
Principal

April 15

Student Welcome & Overview: Wood Oaks Principal Ms. Beake and Assistant Principal Mr. Suminski will visit Shabonee during the school day to meet with students and provide a brief overview of life at Wood Oaks. They will review available classes, explain the daily schedule, and answer student questions to help support a smooth transition to junior high.

April 16

Parent Orientation Meeting: April 16, 6:00 pm at Wood Oaks. This parent only meeting will give you information about the transition process, Wood Oaks scheduling and programing, and an overview of life at Wood Oaks. This meeting will be in-person only.

May 1

Rising 6th Grader Elective Google Form: Parents of rising 6th graders will be emailed a short Google Form to explain our elective choices. The form is due by May 1.

May 28

Students Tour Wood Oaks - On May 28, during the school day. Future Wildcats come to Wood Oaks with their classes during one of two different tours conducted by current Wildcats.

Summer Mailing

All Wood Oaks parents will receive a summer email from Mrs. Beake outlining important dates and information for the start of the school year.

August 18

Incoming 6th grade Student Open House: Tuesday, August 18, 3:45pm - 4:45pm. Students ONLY. 6th grade students have an opportunity to meet their 1st period teacher, walk their schedule, and pick-up their Chromebook prior to the first day of school. This event is for 6th grade students only.

First Day of School

First day of School! Thursday, August 20: 8:10AM start. We will have a final orientation for sixth grade students throughout the school day. Students will be able to learn their new locks, review our PBIS system of R.OA.R., meet their new teachers, and familiarize themselves further with the school building. Our entire staff will be supporting students with this transition, even beyond the first day.