Thursday, October 1, 2026
®
The World's Local News Source®
SHELBY, NC – July 23, 2026 – As families begin shopping for school supplies, Shelby High School counselor Juan Cherry says parents of rising ninth graders should also focus on preparing students for one of the most important transitions of their academic careers: the move to high school. “Preparing students for the transition to high school is important because ninth grade can shape the rest of their high school experience,” Cherry said.
National research has consistently identified ninth grade as one of the most pivotal years in a student’s educational journey. Researchers at the Consortium on Chicago School Research found that freshman-year success is one of the strongest predictors of high school graduation. North Carolina education data also reinforces the importance of early academic performance, noting that eighth-grade achievement can help predict later outcomes, including ACT performance and college enrollment.
Cherry’s first book titled, Beyond the Books: A Student’s Guide to Success, highlights to students in plain language, why ninth grade is critical to a successful high school career. Cherry is also the author of a second book titled, Beyond the Basics: A Parent’s Guide to High School
Success. Drawing on more than 16 years of experience counseling students, this book gives parents practical guidance and useful information.
Both books are written in an easy-to-understand, straight-talk style and are useful for students, parents, counselors, and teachers. Both books are available on Amazon, and a companion workbook will be available soon.
This time of year, parents may begin feeling some anxiety as their students start the new school year. Cherry says while this is normal, parents should start preparing their students before school begins to help ensure a smooth transition into high school. “Now is the time to help
students prepare, not after school has already started,” Cherry said.
For more information contact Dr. Mary J. Elliott, Communications Director, at 720-353-5785.
Juan L. Cherry is a pastor, school counselor, author, speaker, and founder of Wired For Success Communications & Consulting, LLC. His work focuses on faith, education, leadership, and personal development, helping individuals gain clarity, confidence, and direction.
For further WNN articles and news stories, visit https://wisenewsnetwork.com
For more WNN video news stories, visit YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wisenewsnetwork
Contact WNN at newsdesk@wisenewsnetwork.com
North Carolina Press Association Member
©️Copyright 2026 Wise News Network. All rights reserved.
