On to Middle School!
STJ 5th graders receiving a welcome from Dr. Shelaine Taylor, Middle School Principal.
STJ 5th graders hearing about middle school course selection from 6th grade math teacher, Mrs. Christie.
STJ 5th graders touring middle school
A favorite tradition at Saint James School is the 6th grade tour. Fifth graders trek across the quad to the middle school building to get a first-hand glimpse into the world of middle school. They check out the classrooms, science lab, library, technology lab, and the “big” gymnasium. After being the top dogs in elementary school, many fifth graders have mixed emotions about starting a new grade in a brand new space. The sixth grade class, with the wisdom and experience of a year in middle school, gave our fifth graders advice for their new venture.
Students gave advice about time management, study skills, planning and organizing. Rather than only having two teachers (plus enrichment and P.E. teachers), middle school students have four academic teachers, plus elective, exploratory, and P.E. coaches. Navigating all of those different classes, with different books and supplies required, can be an adjustment. There are also new challenges academically, with increased independent study time.
The transition to sixth grade is exciting, and with all of our grades (PreK2-12th grade) housed on one campus, experiences like this allow for a smoother transition with more confidence! We are so lucky to have such an incredible fifth grade team who have worked all year preparing out soon-to-be middle schoolers for the next steps. Likewise, we are thankful for the sixth grade team who is ready to work with students as they discover new passions and set new goals in middle school.
STJ’s middle school is a unique place for students grades 6-8. These years are a time for exploration and growth. This year, Middle School students were encouraged to be a “HERO.” This acronym stands for hardworking, empathetic, respectful, and optimistic. Students chose their favorite quote and wrote down ways to display being a “HERO” to others and practiced putting those values into action.
The Saint James Middle School has its own administration, with a designated school counselor and principal, who are experts in adolescent education and emotional/physical health for this age range. The Middle School offers academic support including tutoring and “step ahead” initiatives. Middle School also is the first time students choose an elective and have the opportunity to take advanced courses. We can’t wait to see these fifth graders take on the new world of middle school and be “HEROes” themselves. #wearesaintjamesschool
Advice to the new 6th grade class:
“Be careful with time management. Don’t forget your books and try to not be tardy. You get new freedoms in middle school. Like you don’t have to walk in a line!”
“Find a good friend group. You will get really close in middle school .”
“Take World Cultures! It’s fun and we play games. We learn a lot about other cultures.”
“Make sure your iPad is charged each day!”