Preparing for Middle School

Focused preparation for middle school takes place in the upper elementary grades, when teachers strive to expose students to the concept of grades, how to study and prepare for tests, and the importance of developing strong organizational skills while remaining true to our own mission and values. In fourth grade, for example, as students become adept at converting fractions to decimals and percents, they also learn the grade equivalent of their numerical scores on teacher made tests and quizzes. Grades are explained and students come to understand the role grades may play in future experiences. Discussions with students begin to focus more on the importance of time management and organizational systems and teachers scaffold long term projects to help students internalize these valuable skills. These intentional efforts on the part of teachers combined with our school’s mission allow students to leave us well prepared for what they will face in middle school and beyond.

Results of our annual middle school survey, administered in a student’s sixth grade year, consistently indicate that students and parents alike believe that The Raleigh School well prepared students both academically and socially for the experience of middle school. Comments such as this from TRS parent Edie Cagle are not uncommon: "I can't imagine a preparation better than what we received at TRS. Her elementary education was worth every penny. Thank you for making her education so fulfilling to her."

Anecdotal information gathered from families, graduates, and faculty at various middle schools also indicates that our graduates perform well academically and often take on leadership roles within their new environment.

While preparing students for middle school is an ongoing process, we also work closely with families of fourth and fifth grade students as they explore different options for their child’s middle school years. We believe that it is important that each family and graduate finds a middle school program that best fits their individual needs. Each year an informational evening is held at the school to provide parents with details regarding the range of choices that are available to families. Former parents are invited back to serve on panel discussions, sharing their personal experiences with families. Finally, teachers and administrators meet with parents offering input and guidance to help ensure a smooth transition for all students. Our goal is that each of our graduates meets with continued academic and social-emotional success as they continue their educational journey.

Our graduates leave The Raleigh School as confident, joyful learners who care about others. They are skilled problem solvers, critical and creative thinkers, and enthusiastic learners. 

Middle school educators across the Triangle tell us that our students are some of their most skilled and actively engaged learners in their schools. Many of our graduates go on to become leaders in their new school’s clubs, activities, and student organizations.

Our graduates don’t sit in the back of their middle and high school classrooms because at The Raleigh School there is no back of the class. Our combination of high expectations, ability to build on student strengths, and active, engaged teaching and learning program promotes intellectual curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.