In one large group of 10, students work together to write the word “persevere” using one marker and strings. Perseverance required.
While generally positive, students at this age are often not outwardly enthusiastic about activities that push them outside of their comfort zone. Seventh grader Ella Humphrey bucks that stereotype, however. “I think it’s really cool because you get to hang out with people that you wouldn’t normally. And you can talk about things that you wouldn’t normally. I feel more comfortable now connecting with students outside of my grade level.” When asked how her peers feel, she says, “People think they are more fun and more beneficial than they want to admit.”
Alex Bolduan '05, Middle School assistant, recently completed her initial teacher licensure program and played a vital role in designing and implementing the mixers. A kid at heart, she sought out activities that appealed to her. “I think we’ve been successful with that. The goal is to get them thinking about one of the character pillars in an active and engaging way, so they can actually practice those character skills and then reflect on that practice. They really seem to be connecting.” Bolduan even snuck her own square into the gratitude quilt. “We have so much to be grateful for in Middle School at MPA,” she shares.
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