College acceptance is not typically at the top of a middle school student’s to-do list, but preparation for higher education should begin somewhere between after-school practice and math homework at this age.

Back to school for Georgia students means reuniting with friends, reminiscing about summer and, unfortunately, sharing germs that could lead to various illnesses.

It may not use the fanciest place settings or offer wine pairings, but the best farm-to-plate eatery in Warren County, Georgia, is — by far — the school cafeteria.

A generation ago, students looked forward to recess; a break in the school day when they could spend time with their friends climbing on the monkey bars, swinging or just burning some energy. But recess isn’t a guaranteed part of the school day anymore, and parents must make a concerted effort to add physical activity into their child’s day, says Diane Bales, a University of Georgia Cooperative Extension human development specialist.

Almost any teacher in America can look at her class and know which kids went to bed too late the night before. Sometimes the students are grumpy. Sometimes they’re drowsy. Sometimes they’re just not as attentive as they usually are. The symptoms are varied, but they’re all caused by a lack of sleep.

When summer draws to an end, parents often start getting their students ready to return to school. While a new backpack and a collection of notebooks and pens might top their to-do list, students also need to prepare emotionally, said Diane Bales, an associate professor of human development and family science at the University of Georgia College of Family and Consumer Sciences.

Amid after-school activities — homework, dinner prep, baths and bedtime — it can be hard for parents and children to make time to talk.

While Georgia’s school kids are just getting into the swing of summer break, specialists with University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, Georgia 4-H and the UGA College of Family and Consumer Sciences are preparing for August.

Chickens are a vital part of Georgia’s economy and the state’s agricultural heritage. And thanks to a University of Georgia program for teachers, chickens will be helping middle school and high school teachers educate students in Georgia classrooms.