Eighth Grade--Reflections, Celebrating Growth, and Anticipating High School

Hello, 8th grade parents, I am around the table with the 8th grade team. You all are on summer break, and they are about to be on summer break. By the time you hear this, they will also be with you. But before they have left, I have asked them to come together and think about and share some of the insights that they've had of your students over the last year. And hopefully, this will be a real encouragement and blessing to you as you hear some of the ways that your kids have grown, faced challenges, grown spiritually, and how we think they're ready for what they're going to be taking on as freshmen.

Our 8th Grade Team: Michelle Weisberg, Tammy Treadwell, Donna Collins; not pictured: Hannah Gouldrup

The team starts by introducing themselves and sharing fun facts about their teaching experiences. Mrs. Treadwell, who has been teaching math and homeroom Bible for 21 years at PCA, highlights the significant growth in students' attitudes towards math. Ms. Weisberg, the social studies and homeroom Bible teacher, recounts her experience teaching alongside her sisters in Colorado and emphasizes the importance of spiritual and social growth. Mrs. Collins, the English teacher, shares her passion for outdoor activities and worship leading, and Ms. Gouldrup, the 7th and 8th grade science teacher, talks about her first year at PCA and her involvement in coaching middle school sports.

The teachers then reflect on the various forms of growth observed in the students. Mrs. Treadwell discusses the improvement in students' math skills and their willingness to tackle challenges. Mrs. Collins highlights the rigorous English curriculum and the importance of academic integrity, particularly through the research project that required students to cite their sources. Ms. Gouldrup shares the excitement of students exploring potential STEM careers through a career project in science.

Ms. Weisberg shares some thoughtful and profound questions posed by students during the year, reflecting their spiritual growth and curiosity. The team discusses how they help students navigate these questions by turning to Scripture and encouraging open dialogue.

Looking ahead, the teachers express their excitement for the upcoming eighth graders. Mrs. Treadwell mentions the much-anticipated lock-in event, which fosters class bonding through worship and team-building activities. Ms. Gouldrup looks forward to the fun and engaging science experiments, including building rubber band cars. Mrs. Collins emphasizes the significance of the Washington D.C. trip, which not only enhances learning but also helps students develop social skills and independence.

As the school year concludes, the team expresses their gratitude for the opportunity to invest in the students' growth. They wish the parents and students a restful and exciting summer and look forward to seeing them in the new academic year.

God bless you and take care.