Middle School Survival Guide

Backpacks and Lockers and Storage Oh My!

 When thinking of school supply shopping, one of the first things that comes to mind is a backpack.

 Middle school is only three years, so one backpack should last you the whole time. When purchasing this backpack, think to yourself: well I regret buying this later?

 I personally like Jansport backpacks because they're relatively inexpensive and great quality. I used to have the L.L. Bean ones in elementary school, but I found that a seam on the shoulder would fray every single time.

 Roller backpacks seem great  and convenient, but they're heavy and unwieldy. Do you really want to carry all that extra weight on your back? 

 Make sure your backpack has a cupholder. My middle school backpack didn't, and I cursed my pre- sixth grade self every time water got on my books. Try to get cupholders that are mesh with elastic, or have some sort of elastic on them. When shopping, bring your regular water bottle to see if it fits.

 In addition, you need padded shoulder straps. Not padded ones can dig into your shoulders and if you're carrying around something heavy, like a computer, it hurts. In addition to shoulder padding, make sure that there's a padded technology sleeve if you need to bring a computer or electronic device to and from and around school. 

 In eighth grade, my backpack hit the pavement one too many times and my computer screen cracked. The computer is a Mac, so wasn't able to see most of the screen because of the crack. Carry your computer in a separate computer sleeve, and then put it in the backpack if the built-in sleeve doesn't have excessive cushioning like those more sporty ones do.

 Make sure your backpack is washable. Backpacks get so nasty, especially if you keep snacks in there. Papers get crumpled up at the bottom and then disintegrate if they get wet. Markers and pens become uncapped and leak everywhere, hand sanitizer bottles leak, and so many other nasty things. You want a washable bag.

 The backpack also has to be large enough to hold all of your supplies. On a heavier  day for middle school, this can include multiple binders, folders, gym clothes, many pens and pencils, notebooks, lunch, and a computer to top that mess off. 

 To take the load off your back, some middle schools have lockers. Think and see if it's worth it. If your locker is in a totally inconvenient point in the school for, say, your A-day, only put your B-day supplies in your locker. In seventh grade, my locker was inside n the French room. Whenever I forgot my Spanish book, I would have to run in there and open my locker, which was conveniently placed right next to the whiteboard at the front of the room, and totally interrupt the French class.

 If you do have a locker, don't go all out with decor. All you really need is one of those unfoldable shelves from Target and something on the door. I had a little wire  mesh caddy with a mirror on it that I used to hold my hairbrush. You can use a fabric hanger if you want, especially if you use your locker a lot. 

 Also, consider where you live. If you live in a really cold or rainy area, then consider having a locker to store your coat in. Remember that lockers are all about convenience, and you totally don't need one if you don't want one. However, if the school pre-assigns lockers for you, then use it to store things you might not need every day. Think of it as a cabinet for things you only need at school. That's all it really is.

 Good luck!

            - Ella 🦋