By Kandice Kimmel, Latin & History, 5-8th Grade

Project based learning is a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging, and complex questions, problems or challenges.

To wrap up our world geography unit, our seventh and eighth grade students hosted an International Fair. They were each assigned a country to research, and designed a display, brought an international dish to sample, and presented for all of the students and teachers at St. James Day School. I am so incredibly proud of each and every one of these students!

By Susie Rogers, 5th-8th ELA

In today’s rapidly changing world, the value of a comprehensive education cannot be overstated. Among the traditional subjects of math, science, and ELA, one often overlooked yet profoundly impactful component is Religious Studies. At our school, under the guidance of Father Halt, rector of St. James Episcopal Church, students are discovering the depth and relevance of their religious education in exciting and meaningful ways.

Each morning begins with a devotional in their homeroom, setting a reflective tone for the day. On Tuesdays, the entire school gathers for an all-school chapel, fostering a sense of community and shared values. But it’s in the weekly Religious Studies class that students truly dive deep into their spiritual education, and the experience is nothing short of transformative.

Currently, students are engaged in an in-depth analysis of The Apostles' Creed. Far from merely a ritualistic recitation, they are dissecting each line to uncover its rich layers of meaning. This exercise is not just an academic pursuit; it’s a journey into understanding the core tenets of their faith and how these principles apply to their lives today. Father Halt’s approach is both scholarly and practical. By breaking down the Creed, students learn to appreciate its historical and theological context. 

In a world where meaningful conversations about faith and values are increasingly rare, the Religious Studies class offers a sanctuary of learning and reflection. Under Father Halt’s expert guidance, students are not only gaining a deeper understanding of their religious heritage but are also developing skills that enrich their entire academic experience. In essence, Religious Studies at our school is more than just a subject—it's a gateway to understanding the past, engaging with the present, and preparing for the future. It’s a testament to the importance of integrating spiritual and intellectual growth, helping students become well-rounded individuals grounded in both faith and knowledge.

By Susie Rogers, 5th-8th ELA

The One Word Project is simple yet profoundly impactful exercise. This innovative approach invites students to distill their aspirations for the year into a single, powerful word. This word then serves as a guiding star, shaping their actions, decisions, and mindset throughout the year.

The 7th Graders begin with deep self-reflection. Students dive into an introspective process, exploring what they hope to achieve, overcome, or improve in the coming year. This could be anything from enhancing their academic performance to fostering personal growth or even cultivating better relationships. The essence of their goals is distilled into one word—a beacon that will illuminate their path.

Choosing the right word is more than just a fun activity; it's a serious commitment. Each student carefully selects a term that resonates deeply with their personal objectives. Whether it’s “Courage,” “Gratitude,” “Focus,” or “Adventure,” the chosen word becomes a constant reminder of their aspirations and a driving force behind their daily choices and behaviors.

Once the word is selected, the next step is to bring it to life. Students research and gather quotations that encapsulate the spirit of their word, offering wisdom and inspiration from those who have walked similar paths. These quotations become daily affirmations, helping to reinforce their commitment and keep their focus sharp. Visual representation is another key component. Students create images that evoke the essence of their word, creating a visual collage that serves as a constant reminder.

The One Word Project is more than just a yearly exercise; it's a mindful practice that encourages students to live with intention. By continuously reflecting on their word, students align their daily efforts with their long-term goals, fostering a sense of purpose and direction. The project’s simplicity makes it accessible, while its impact is profound. It teaches students the power of focus, the importance of self-awareness, and the value of setting meaningful goals. It becomes a symbol of their commitment and a testament to their growth. The One Word Project is a testament to how a single word can drive transformation and inspire a purposeful, focused year.

By Susie Rogers, ELA, 5th-8th

The Career Fair Project was a comprehensive project where students delved into potential career paths, exploring requirements, educational trajectories, and interviewing professionals in their desired fields. By examining job growth, salary prospects, and a typical day's activities, the students gained invaluable insights into their prospective careers. Dressed in their professional attire, they had a fun morning presenting to parents and other students. Engaging in such research not only helps students make informed decisions about their future but also cultivates essential skills in research, communication, and presentation. The exploration of careers led many to realize the cost of education, cost of living, and salary average didn’t always add up!!

By Susie Rogers, ELA, 5th-7th

The Outsiders, a classic novel by S.E. Hinton, continues to resonate with readers today due to its timeless exploration of social class, identity, and the challenges faced by adolescents. Set in the 1960s, the novel follows the struggles of two rival groups, the Greasers and the Socs, offering a realistic commentary on the harsh realities of teenage life. Despite the era it depicts, the themes of belonging, friendship, and the quest for individuality are universal and still relevant today. At the end of the novel, my 7th grade students celebrated their exploration of "The Outsiders" enjoying chocolate cake and Pepsi (a staple in Ponyboy’s household) while watching the movie adaptation. To deepen their understanding, they then engaged in a Bloom Ball project, incorporating Bloom's taxonomy to delve into various cognitive processes, enhancing their ability to remember, understand, apply, analyze, evaluate, and create. This interactive and multi-dimensional approach highlights the enduring relevance of "The Outsiders" in fostering critical thinking and empathy among modern-day readers. It is a much-anticipated 7th grade unit of study!