Building Classroom Culture
Students continue to engage in rigorous academic curriculum that helps them become high school ready while also considering how their actions impact their classmates. For example, when raising their hands in class, they ask themselves questions like, “Was what I said on topic? Was it true? Was it kind?” This self-awareness improves the learning environment for all students and has a positive impact on classroom culture.
Developing Leadership and Self-Advocacy
Students begin their year with a week-long sleep-away camp experience where the camp motto focuses on challenge by choice: my own self, at my very best, all of the time.
As our 7th and 8th graders grow into leaders of the school, they serve as team captains for field day, active members on Student Council and committed reading buddies for our youngest students. Students also learn to become more independent and to proactively reach out to teachers when they are struggling, have a question or need support.
Understanding Transitions
Our College and Career Persistence Counselors work closely with students and their families to prepare for their transition to high school and find their best-fit school: a school that supports their academic and social-emotional needs and interests outside the classroom.
As our 8th graders enjoy their last year, they also reflect on how they have grown in the graduate-at-graduation values and how they will carry these values with them to high school.
