Ella Temple ’21 A Thriving Middle Schooler

by Danny Kramer, Director of Institutional Advancement and Kristen Lee, Upper Division Teacher

This winter we caught up with Ella Temple ’21 to find out how things are going in middle school and how Village prepared her to be such an impressive young woman. Ella enthusiastically told us about her challenges and accomplishments over the last couple of years since graduating from Village School. We are very proud of her and honored to have her represent Village so well.

What did you love most about your Village experience?

I loved my Village School class filled with unique kids and fun teachers who peaked my interest in subjects and took the time to personally know me. Needless to say, there never was a dull and insignificant day at Village.

How did your Village experience prepare you for middle school?

The village experience prepared me for middle school with its rotating 5-6th grade schedule. Going from Village’s warm and familiar elementary community to Harvard-Westlake’s large, daunting middle school, was a huge shift at first. However, I found the schedule easy to adapt to because Village School had one that was similar. I felt prepared academically and have an incredible group of friends (including some who came from Village with me).

You are very involved at your middle school; please tell us more! What specific programs/classes/ extracurriculars are you involved with at Harvard Westlake (and briefly describe your involvement in each)?

I take part in many programs, classes, and extracurriculars at HW to continue my love for the arts. Currently, I’m taking an advanced dance class and am involved in the advanced middle school campus choir. I love participating in the vocal showcases and productions. My most recent performance was when I got the role as Katherine Blake in Freaky Friday. In terms of core classes, I am taking an advanced math course and Latin 1B (the second level of a new language for me). In terms of programs, I am a HW Student Ambassador. In this program, we assist in providing guidance to prospective students (such as Q&A sessions, etcetera), give campus tours, and work during school events (providing information and directions).

Tell us more about your experience in the middle school musical last year.

My experience in the middle school musical last year was one that will never be forgotten. During a musical, you truly create a family-like bond with your castmates and create lifelong memories. The musical helped me form connections with kids from all grades. Musicals are time consuming, but are my favorite way to spend that time. I am forever grateful for these opportunities and look forward to next year’s production.

Did your experience at Village School prepare you for such a role?

If so, how?

My experience at Village School’s music program with Mr. Whitmore was great about giving us a foundation for learning solfege. In addition, the Village School talent shows helped me get accustomed to performing in front of large audiences.

Did Village School spark an interest that you have carried with you to middle school?

Village School sparked an interest in me for choir, writing, and reading that I have carried with me to middle school. Village School singers was where I was able to take my passion for singing to the next level, and now I partake in an advanced level choir. As for writing, I found a true love for it at Village School. From second grade fractured fairy tales, to fourth grade poetry units, to creative lessons with Mr. Lind in fifth grade, I have always LOVED writing. I have recently completed a creative writing course at HW, and been encouraged to submit some of my poetry to the newsletter. Lastly, reading has always been something I love to do since I was little. Reading Bob books in TK set forth my enjoyment, but ever since Mrs. Burkhardt introduced me to the Dystopian genre in 6th grade, it continuously persists to be a nightly occurrence.

What are you looking forward to this year (and beyond)?

I can’t wait to start 9th grade, and hope to someday professionally pursue my passion for the arts.