Sixth Grade Academy

The Academy is an intentional, specific approach to middle school for all incoming sixth graders at St. Joseph’s.

Sixth grade is a significant transitional year for most students. There’s more movement, more teachers, more classes, and of course, there are more students, many of whom are bigger and older. In order to ease this transition, our Academy provides both a unique place and teaching staff for sixth graders during this important time.

Not at all. The dedicated space is merely a means to an end. It allows the sixth grade teachers to collaborate across disciplines much more effectively, while also allowing them to be more responsive to the needs of their students. Within the Academy, the teachers are able to take part of a day, or an entire day if necessary, to reinforce and apply particular concepts, lessons, and information to the sixth grade as a whole. For example, should students need help with math concepts with which they have obviously struggled, the Academy can make that possible. Additionally, this format allows for the sixth grade class to view topical films, hear inspiring and informative guest speakers, and address specific behavioral/social issues that are unique to these students.

No. All sixth graders still participate in Middle School Households with seventh and eighth graders, and lunch is still with all students in the cafeteria. Both PE and Fine Arts classes are outside the dedicated space, though only sixth graders are in these classes. There are also opportunities throughout the year where sixth graders interact with other students, making it easier for them to integrate into the wider school community.

Yes. The benefits of single-gender classrooms at this age are well-documented, and we have no desire to lose this important aspect of our middle school education model.