This document discusses the importance of ninth grade for students' development and success in high school. It notes that ninth grade is a transition year when cognitive, emotional, and physical changes converge as students enter new school environments with more autonomy and homework. The document advocates using brain research to help students develop skills like executive function, stress management, and a growth mindset to meet the increased academic demands of ninth grade. It describes a workshop called "BOOM" that teaches these skills and discusses applying these concepts in the classroom through activities centered on mindfulness, metacognition, and analyzing works of literature.