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 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 – 14 GRP 5th grade
- May 11 – 13 Camp Jekyll 6th grade
- May 11 – 14 ERB 7th & 8th
- May 15 – 18 DC 7th & 8th
- Graduation 5/28 5 pm
ELA: This week in ELA, 6th grade collaborated with Ms. Allison in math to perfectly calculate spacing, margins, and proportions for their illuminated manuscripts template, much like monks and scholars would do in the times of Catherine, Called Birdy. We drafted descriptions of mythical creatures of our choosing and began illustrating and filling in our manuscript templates. 6th grade also took part in major grammar and vocab end of year reviews!
Next week, 6th grade will be off to make fabulous memories in Jekyll Island! Bon Voyage!
Science: This week in science, 6th graders discovered aerobic respiration and how body systems work together to get the cells the water and nutrients in order to aerobic respiration to take place. Students then discussed how distress in one system would impact other systems before taking an assessment on Friday.
Next week, 6th graders go on their Jekyll Island adventure and I am so excited for all the fun we are going to have!
Social Studies: Sixth grade has been working diligently on their research papers all week. I am impressed with how much they have grown as writers from last year to now! They have learned about how to outline, research and think critically about their topic and it shows! I hope they enjoy their class trip next week. When they return we will finish the papers, which are due on the 22nd.
Math: This week in math, 6th graders used their mastery of adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing decimal numbers to plan and budget their dream summer vacation. They researched flights, activities, gas prices, car rental prices, and accommodations in their dream destinations to create a four day itinerary and added their total cost together. It was so fun to watch them use their mastered skills and research to plan their dream trips! Next week, 6th graders will take on Jekyll Island!
