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To begin the school year, students in grades 6-8 participated in a two-day Middle School Orientation entitled "Defining Independence." Designed to set a positive tone for the months ahead, the launch focused on belonging, awareness, and responsibility. Through a mix of academic preparation, community-building exercises, and social-emotional learning, students deepened their connections with peers while embracing the values that define Independence.

This year, our middle schoolers focused on three main areas. 

Community, Identity, and Belonging: Students examined the foundational elements of our school community, reviewing the Family Handbook not as a list of rules, but as a shared agreement for mutual respect. Grade-level discussions highlighted everyday manners, consideration for others, and what it truly means to belong to this community.

Cultural Competency & Perspective-Taking: Guided readings and group discussions encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones. By exploring diverse backgrounds and viewpoints, they gained a deeper understanding for how individual differences make our school stronger.

Teamwork & Fun: Interactive challenges designed to build trust rounded out the program. The orientation culminated on Friday with class-specific outings: 6th graders enjoyed yard games on campus, 7th graders headed out for a afternoon of bowling, and 8th graders took to the water for a canoeing trip.

Defining Independence offers a valuable pause from traditional tests and quizzes, giving middle schoolers the dedicated space to reflect on who they are as individuals and classmates, equipping them with the social and emotional tools needed to navigate the year.