Tamika Dees, Head of Middle School

November 1, 2024

Greetings, Middle School Families,

This week we get to shift our focus and observe what has been going on in the Middle School Science Department this year. This team of innovative educators have been working hard to ensure that our students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects and labs.

The 5th graders are currently studying the structure of DNA and genetics. The entire grade has created a custom 3D model of a DNA strand that is displayed in the classroom. The students are also excited about their upcoming genetics lab where they will have an opportunity to figure out if their own genetic traits are dominant or recessive.

The 6th graders recently explored fossils and the Geologic Time Scale. The lesson culminated with a research-presentation project, allowing each student to dive into Earth’s past to explore a chosen “Ancient Beast”. Currently, the students are exploring another section of the Geology unit covering Minerals & Rocks. Many varying rock samples have been observed where students have been tasked with using detective work to classify and identify different specimens. 

The 7th grade scientists just completed a group project where they designed their own cities based off of cells and their organelles. They have also measured the rate of photosynthesis in spinach leaves. This quarter the students will complete their first research project. Students will select a scientist of their choice and conduct research to create a presentation demonstrating the scientist’s contributions to the field of science. 

Finally, 8th grade Honors students are working with SMU using computer simulations and pendulums to provide data on how students best learn this concept. These students are also wrapping up data collection on their individual STEM Showcase projects. In physical science class, students are completing a lab studying solids, liquids and gasses with a lab where students use phase changes and air pressure to crush a soda can. 

We are so excited about all of the wonderful things that are in store for our budding science department and how they will utilize their science skills in the real world. 

The Middle School Science Department,

Elissa Eggleston - 8th grade Science and 8th grade Dean
Chris Henderson - 5th and 6th grade Science
Nicholas Pham - 5th and 7th grade Science, Lower School Science Specialist

Information Station: 

7th/8th Grade Dance: Calling all 7th and 8th Graders! Friday November 8, we invite you to come join us for the first dance of the year. Please see the flyer for more details. Sign up is at Mrs. Wetzel’s desk. 

7th Grade Class Trip- March 26-28
8th Grade Class Trip- April 9-11
November Food4Life Menu

College Advising

We are thrilled to invite you to our upcoming NCAA College Athletic Placement Workshop, which promises to shed light on the exciting world of college athletics and provide you with essential insights into the recruitment process. This event will be held on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. for Meet the Coaches and a 6:30 p.m. presentation in the Flavin Fine Arts Performance Hall.

Information Station: 

7th Grade Class Trip- March 26-28
8th Grade Class Trip- April 9-11
October Food4Life Menu

With profound gratitude,

Tamika R. Dees