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Summer at Independence
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Defining Independence Puzzle
  • Leadership & Character
  • Middle School
  • Soaring Forward
Defining Independence

To begin the school year, students in 6th-8th grade participated in a Middle School Orientation entitled "Defining Independence." This 3-day launch set the tone for a successful year by focusing on belonging, awareness, and responsibility. Through a balance of academic preparation, community-building, and social-emotional learning, students strengthened connections with one another while embracing the values that define Independence. 

Each grade approached Defining Independence with a unique lens: 

6th Grade: Intrapersonal Growth

Our 6th graders focused on the importance of self-awareness and responsibility. A highlight of their orientation was giving back through Project Linus, where they made blankets to support children in need. Alongside this meaningful service, students strengthened teamwork through STEM challenges, explored the school’s family handbook in a creative escape-room style activity, and collaborated to create shared norms that reflect respect and responsibility in their community.

7th Grade: Community

The 7th grade class centered their orientation on building and strengthening community, both in-person and online. They discussed how respect, empathy, and responsibility shape healthy relationships, practiced strategies for conflict resolution, and reflected on identity and belonging through literature and personal connections. Their experiences culminated in a service project at Sean’s House, a local organization offering mental health resources for young people, where they created affirmation cards and gift bags to support others in the wider community.

8th Grade: Interpersonal Leadership

In 8th grade, the students approached orientation through the lens of leadership and connection, preparing for their final middle school year and beyond. Activities encouraged them to explore commonalities with peers, reflect on growth mindsets, and consider how identity is shaped by family and culture. They also took on a leadership role within the Independence community, guiding younger students by leading the Rules Assembly and Dress Code Fashion Show in engaging, student-centered ways.