As we move closer to the end of the school year, I’ve been reflecting on what it means to complete tasks with excellence. This week, 7th and 8th graders wrapped up their science fair projects which was no small feat. These projects required thoughtful planning, persistence, and a willingness to revisit and revise their work in order to truly do their best. It was inspiring to watch students push through challenges, make improvements, and take pride in creating something they felt confident sharing.
In our recent middle school meeting, Ms. Rives built on this idea by introducing SMART goals—encouraging students to think intentionally about how to set themselves up for success. We talked about how goal-setting doesn’t end with the school year, but can be a powerful tool for growth over the summer and beyond. Taking the time to set personal goals gives us direction, motivation, and a sense of purpose as we continue to learn and grow outside the classroom.
As I reflect alongside our students, I’ve been thinking about my own goals for the summer: finally completing a few house projects I’ve been putting off, reading five nonfiction books before the next school year begins, and making it to the beach at least once a week (I am ashamed at how few times I have actually gone to the beach since I moved here 4 years ago). Sharing these goals with students has been a reminder that growth is lifelong—and that striving for excellence can happen in both big and small ways.
As we finish out the year, I’m so proud of the dedication, resilience, and effort our students continue to show. They are learning that excellence isn’t about perfection, but about giving their best, reflecting, and continuing to grow.
—Ms. Amanda
***Each of us in the middle school is feeling all the love this week and wow, did you all show up! From sweet notes to treats and thoughtful surprises, Teacher Appreciation Week has made us feel celebrated, spoiled, and maybe just a little extra caffeinated. Thank you to our amazing parents and students for making us feel so appreciated. We sure are grateful for this wild and wonderful community!***
Upcoming Dates:
- May 14th – Pass It On at 5:00PM (11:30am Dismissal)
- May 11 – May 14 GRP 5th grade
- May 11 – May 13 Camp Jekyll 6th grade
- May 11 – May 14 ERB 7th & 8th
- May 11 – May 14 ERB 7th & 8th
- May 15 – May 18 DC 7th & 8th
- Graduation 5/28 5 pm
ELA: This week in ELA, 8th grade completed their investigative journal articles for publishing. We read each other’s findings and shared copies of our papers with staff and students! 8th also took park in major grammar and vocabulary reviews to cap off the end of our year and look forward with confidence to high school.
Next week, 8th grade has ERB testing all week. Be sure to encourage your kids to get great rest and eat full breakfasts each morning!
Science: This week in Science, 8th graders completed and presented their Science Fair projects! Students showcased the culmination of weeks of hard work—designing investigations, collecting and analyzing data, writing detailed reports, crafting thoughtful presentations, and creating polished display boards.
I am incredibly proud of the dedication, perseverance, and creativity students demonstrated throughout this process. It was wonderful to see them take ownership of their learning and confidently share their work with others.
Next week I know they are going to crush their ERB tests!
Social Studies: Eighth grade students finished their unit on WW2 and took their final test on Friday. We have also been working hard on our research papers. I am impressed with how much they have grown as writers from last year to now! Their ability to work independently and think deeply about their topic shows in their work and I am glad that they are taking on this challenge! Next week is ERB testing so make sure they get plenty of rest and come ready so we can enjoy the trip to Washington D.C.!
Math: This week in math, the 8th graders reviewed statistics analysis and data representation – revisiting concepts like mean, median, mean absolute deviation, interquartile range, histograms, dot plots, and box plots. This is an early unit in Algebra 1, so it’s important to have the foundations of statistics mastered before they move on! Next week, I know they’re going to crush their ERB tests while 5th and 6th graders are on their class trips.
