“Just Vibe!” I say aloud to the class as they settle in for a Study Hall. An eighth grader looks at me and says, “Remember when I was in 6th grade and we tried so hard to find our vibe?” I looked at her and realized how correct she was and how important it is in the TCS middle school culture to be able to “just vibe,” or in adult words, read the room. Every classroom and teacher, according to the students, have their own vibe. Each grade of students, of course, has their own energy. But, overall, the atmosphere of the middle school has been one that we have not had since its inception. The joy, laughter, and transparency between friends, teachers, and advisories is unique. Of course there’s a reality, with conflict, adverse remarks, and even “break-ups,” but that is overshadowed by the amount of time for friends to create their own vibe and be themselves. Reflecting on the ways the middle school has evolved since my first year, as I prepare to see my first class graduate, I’m reminded why progressive education is a gift. These kids are given an opportunity to be who they are and find their authentic selves. The overall “vibe” is to be you…period. As they leave TCS they will take that “gift” and hopefully, continue to share it!


-LD




Here’s a look at what is happening in each of the classes:


What’s happening in Science?
Seventh graders finished up their last unit this week! They learned about kinetic energy and how to calculate calories by experimenting with different water temperatures. They also learned the beginnings of how to balance out chemical equations. They created a precipitate by blowing carbon dioxide into water and then and then looked at the chemical reaction that occurred to figure out the product, which was calcium carbonate and more water. Next week, they will be on their trip to Florida!

What’s up in Math?
Seventh grade finished their last assessment of the year today! They were able to correctly order irrational numbers, find missing side lengths of right triangles using the Pythagorean Theorem, and practiced their multi-step problem solving skills in order to solve a volume problem using the formula for a cone and the Pythagorean Theorem. They have remained resilient this year and continued to persist and persevere through learning and mastering math concepts during their seventh grade year!

What’s happening in ELA?
Most seventh graders have completed their historical fiction final reading project. They have started their mini-group research project on their argument essay. We are through with the grammar workbook and reading logs for the school year.

What’s going on in Social Studies?
Students began the week by looking at the aftermath of the Reconstruction Era. Students then analyzed some of the Jim Crow Laws that were being put in place in the South. Students then worked to create their own Reconstruction Plans using information they studied throughout the unit.


Important Dates:

May 5- Middle School Dance (7pm-9pm)
May 26th – Teacher Work Day (No School)
May 29th – Memorial Day (No School)
June 1st – Half Day (11:30am Dismissal)
June 2nd – Field Day/Last Day of School (11:30am Dismissal)