I thought it important to update you on our 1st ever JMS Exploratory Day. This project from the teacher and student perspective was a smashing success! You may remember that the purpose of this event was to enable students to discover their particular abilities, talents, and preferences, through the development of student-centered activities offered by our middle level staff. The offerings for this event were many and varied with 29 different workshops from which to choose. Students (8th graders first) chose from a variety of options; everything from fitness activities, playing games, making cookies, crepes or pies, guitar playing, or survival skills, to name a few. One of the added benefits of this event was the cross-grade level and cross teacher connections that were made. 6th graders worked with 8th graders in small groups and engaged with teachers they did not know prior to this event.
Students and teachers provided feedback at the end of the sessions. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and gives our committee some ideas to explore for improvement. Some suggested we needed more time while and others thought we needed less. Weather played a factor as our climbing wall was cancelled at the last minute, causing some disappointment.
We were grateful for the generous support of parents who donated wish-list items and money to purchase many incidentals that were needed. You helped create a successful event!
The National Middle School Association’s research states that “Exploration is the aspect of a successful middle school’s curriculum that most directly and fully reflects the nature and needs of young adolescents.” (This We Believe, 2003). It was evident on the faces of all participants; teachers and students!
From all of us at Jefferson Middle School, we wish you a very Happy Holiday Season
Respectfully
Joan Zacharias
