Kent School is inviting children and their parents to attend a series of fun, Saturday sessions designed to engage and stimulate the curious minds of children ages 9 and under. The workshops will be held on February 2, February 9 and February 23. All session begin at 9:00 a.m. and conclude at 10:30 a.m. except for Gym Time which will end at 11:00 a.m. There is no charge and the public is welcome. For activities designed for children ages five and under parents should plan to stay on campus while their children participate. Parents are welcomed, but not required, to stay for the ScienceWORKS program for children ages 6 to 9.

On February 2, Director of Athletics and Physical Education teacher, Erin Kent will lead children 5 and under in “Gym Time Tumble and Climb”, a session that will get kids moving through age-appropriate obstacle courses and exercise activities. “Sometimes it is hard for any of us to stay active in the cold winter months. We will guide the children through fun activities that will keep them moving from start to finish.” said Kent. This session will be held in the M. V. “Mike” Williams Gymnasium.

Also on February 2, Lower School Science Teacher, Donna Simmons will lead a ScienceWORKS session for children ages 6 to 9. In ScienceWORKS children will cycle through a series of stations to solve problems, explore material properties and get a better understanding of science in our everyday lives all while having fun and perhaps getting a little messy. This session will be held in our Lower School Science Lab.

Ms. Simmons will also lead a session on February 9 for the youngest scientists. Science Buddies is designed for children ages 3 to 5 and will be held in the Little School at Kent School. Preschool age children will be filled with a sense of wonder with some hands-on science exploration in a fun, engaging setting

On February 23, Kent School Librarian, Julia Gross and Music Teacher, Matthew Wirtz ‘99 will join forces in a Stories and Songs session for children 5 and under. Girls and boys can look forward to some interactive storytelling and music making as well as fun activities using stories and songs. This session will take place in the Kent School Library.

All Saturday Sneak Peek sessions are planned with several breaks so the participants can move around, explore the School facilities and other campus features. Children should be dressed for outdoor play as well as indoor activities. Tricia Cammerzell, Assistant Head of School for Advancement said, “We are so proud of our school and the work we do here, we want others to get a glimpse of our unparalleled environment for learning. These Saturday Sneak Peek sessions are a great way to showcase our teachers’ passion for what they do and our gorgeous, riverside campus.” Cammerzell will be on hand to offer tours of the school to anyone interested.

For more information about Kent School visit www.kentschool.org, email [email protected] or call 410-778-4100 ext. 110. Kent School, located in historic Chestertown, MD is an independent day school serving children from Preschool through Grade 8. The School’s mission is to guide our students in realizing their potential for academic, artistic, athletic, and moral excellence. Our school’s family-oriented, supportive, student-centered environment fosters the growth of honorable, responsible citizens for our country and our diverse world.

Students in Little School at Kent School supported by their teachers recently completed a community service project to benefit the Kent County Humane Society. After spending time teaching and learning about kindness and ways children can be kind outside of home and school, the children decided to collect items for the Humane Society. Members of the entire school community contributed cat food, litter, blankets and towels. The donations were made complete with homemade cat toys that the children made at school.

The Little School at Kent School serves three and four-year-old children. A child’s joyful educational journey begins in Little School where students learn through play in a bright, engaging environment with nurturing, supportive teachers. There is dedicated space for three-year-old students and four-year-old students with corresponding curriculum, activities and materials for both age groups.

Kent School is hosting a Preschool Preview on Friday December 7 from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. for families who are interested in learning more about Little School. Call 410-778-4100 ext. 110 or visit www.kentschool.org for more information.

Kent School serves children from Preschool through Grade Eight in an unparalleled environment for learning on its scenic campus on the bank of the Chester River in historic Chestertown.

On Monday, November 19 the Kent School community gathered for the unveiling of a custom sculpture of the School’s mascot, the Osprey. The sculpture is a gift to the School from the Class of 2019. It is tradition that a graduating class leave the school with a special gift at the end of the academic year. This year, the Class of 2019 gave their gift early in recognition of Kent School’s 50th Anniversary.

The sculpture was installed overlooking an athletic field at the entrance to the school. Now all who visit Kent School’s scenic, riverside campus will be greeted by the unique public art.  At the unveiling Eighth Grade student Frank Cantera said, “The Osprey has been the mascot of Kent School since the late 1980’s when it was voted on by the whole student body. It was a natural choice since in this area where we are standing there used to be a windmill that an osprey nested on for many years.” Cantera’s classmate, Isabelle Requena continued, “So today in honor of our beloved mascot and in celebration of Kent School’s 50th Anniversary, the Class of 2019 presents this Osprey sculpture.”

Forged in metal by artist, John Latell, this sculpture symbolizes the power and strength of the osprey. From the artist’s website, “Everyday I work to clarify ideas and materialize them in my work. I am fortunate to find great challenges and opportunities as a sculptor and metal worker. Ever diligent in my effort to nuance and inform a reluctant material, I find abundant opportunity. I look to meet viewers inclusively, contribute to an exciting dialogue and realize considered work.”

Nancy Mugele, Head of School, thanked the students and their parents and said, “Ospreys are focused, strong and powerful, just like Kent School students, and we are so grateful to the Class of 2019 for dedicating this sculpture for the School’s 50th Anniversary. Every time I drive onto campus, or cheer on a team on our front field, I will remember fondly the wonderful Class of 2019.”

Class parents, Lena Cantera and Nicole Wagner helped bring this project to fruition. Cantera said, “It was wonderful to work with Mr. Latell. He clearly shared our vision and created a piece of art that represents Kent School and enhances our surroundings.” Wagner’s role was to lead the students’ fundraising efforts to help fund the sculpture. She said, “I loved seeing the students’ enthusiasm for this idea. That translated into their support and hard work to help raise funds. I am sure they will be proud of their work and this piece whenever they visit Kent School as alumni.”

Kent School serves boys and girls from Preschool through Grade Eight on its scenic campus on the bank of the Chester River in historic Chestertown. For more information call 410-778-4100 ext. 110 or visit www.kentschool.org.

Teachers at Kent School have fully embraced the enhanced teaching and learning opportunities that come from cross-curricular instruction. Inspired by the professional learning done with Mind, Brain and Education Science in conjunction with the Center for Transformative Teaching and Learning, Kent School teachers understand the power of introducing, teaching and assessing students across different subject areas. Two recent projects illustrate the depth of student understanding when students can study one topic in different classes.

Middle School History and Literature curricula have been linked for many years. Literature is selected based on the period of history covered in each grade. Eighth grade students explore Twentieth Century American History and in literature they read Twentieth Century American writers. Eighth Grade students recently completed John Steinbeck’s The Pearl. In addition to classroom discussion and assignments based on their reading the students were challenged to show deeper understanding of the novel through Art and Science.

Middle School Science teacher Hannah Richardson was able to interweave prior knowledge of oyster anatomy and life cycle to give the students a broader understanding of the story. In Art, teacher Pat Parkhurst incorporated The Pearl into two lessons. First, students honed their oil pastel drawing skills by drawing a detailed oyster shell. Secondly, Parkhurst asked her students to choose and recreate a meaningful scene from the novel in silhouette form. Eighth Grade Language Arts Teacher Liz Filler remarked, “The students really impressed me with their silhouettes. They were able to incorporate so much of the story’s symbolism into their artwork. It was truly gratifying to see this deeper understanding of the subject through these different classes.”

More recently, Fifth Grade students combined Science, Art and community service. In Science class, the Fifth Grade is currently studying fresh water movement within a Chesapeake Bay Studies lens. Connecting the lesson in Art class, the students created stencils of several different species that live in local waterways. With stencils in hand the students went downtown to paint the images around local storm drains. The students used Rainworks paint so the images will only appear when it rains. Pedestrians throughout Chestertown will have a visual understanding that everything going through our storm drains ends up in our waterways and effects the species living there. Hannah Richardson said, “This is a great stepping stone towards becoming a Chester Tester and understanding of how human activity affects water paths and water quality.”

Art Teacher Parkhurst said, “I want students to understand that they can create art that makes a difference or raises awareness. Making the species stencils and then painting the images on the ground gave the students a visual and physical understanding of the power art can have. This project, in conjunction with science and our commitment to Chesapeake Bay Studies at Kent School, was a perfect way to demonstrate that.”

Michelle Duke, Assistant Head of School for Academics said, “Teachers truly are brain-changers. I am inspired by our teachers’ creative use of cross curricular instruction for the benefit of our students. We are deconstructing silos and as a result our students are learning holistically. I believe our commitment to Mind, Brain and Education science is helping us educate children to be problem solvers who understand that the best solutions involve creativity and can be applied to real-world situations.”

Kent School is located at 6788 Wilkins Lane in historic Chestertown. Kent School serves children from Preschool through Grade Eight on its scenic campus on the bank of the Chester River. Kent School’s mission is to guide our students in realizing their potential for academic, artistic, athletic, and moral excellence. Our school’s family-oriented, supportive, student-centered environment fosters the growth of honorable, responsible citizens for our country and our diverse world. For more information call 410-778-4100 ext. 110 or visit www.kentschool.org.

Kent School students, teachers and administrators will participate in Global Character Day on Wednesday, September 26. Global Character Day brings together over 180,000 groups around the world with tools to encourage the development and use of traits of good character. Michelle Duke, Kent School’s Assistant Head of School for Academics, said, “Our participation in Global Character Day coordinates nicely with our participation in Harvard University’s Making Caring Common initiative and our partnership with Changing Perspectives. These partnerships help make character education and the teaching of of empathy strategies more intentional at Kent School.” Duke continued, “We know we cannot teach good character traits in one day and that it is not good enough to ask students to exhibit good character for just one day, so we will use the materials associated with Global Character Day in classes and advisory groups throughout the academic year. We also know that through mind, brain and education science good character can be taught.”

From the Character Day website, “We are all works in progress. On September 26, 2018, millions of people around the globe will gather for the fifth annual Character Day — a global initiative where school districts, organizations, families, and congregations of all sizes screen films on the science of character development from different perspectives. Students and teachers will dive into discussion materials catered to different ages around the importance of developing character strengths (resilience, grit, empathy, courage, kindness). All materials are backed by evidence-based research and latest breakthroughs in everything from mindfulness to neuroscience. Character Day is one day. The resources are available year-round.”

Nancy Mugele, Head of Kent School added, “We are committed to teaching empathy, acceptance and awareness of others at Kent School. These resources and relationships help us fulfill our mission of guiding students to realizing the full potential for academic, artistic, athletic, and moral excellence. We believe that discussions around empathy strategies will be meaningful for all students and we can help them navigate their rapidly changing world.”

Kent School, located on the bank of the Chester River in historic Chestertown, is an independent school celebrating 50 years of serving boys and girls in PK – Grade 8 from throughout the mid-shore and parts of Delaware. Kent School’s mission is to guide its students in reaching their potential for academic, artistic, athletic and moral excellence. The School’s family-oriented, supportive, student-centered environment fosters the growth of honorable, responsible citizens for our country and our diverse world. For more information visit www.kentschool.org or call 410-778-4100 ext. 110

Each year Kent School hosts the Osprey Triathlon, a race featuring a seven-mile bike ride, a two-mile kayak and a three-mile run. The 2018 race will be held on Saturday, September 29 on and around the Kent School campus. This year immediately following the race, Kent School will host a Family Fall Fest with games, live music, activities and food. The Fall Fest is open to the public and families are encouraged to attend whether or not they are competing in the triathlon. Admission is free and most activities cost just $1.00. Kent School is located at 6788 Wilkins Lane in Chestertown.

The Osprey Triathlon is in its sixth year and draws racers from throughout the mid-Atlantic region. Racers may compete as individuals or as two- or three-person relay teams. Prizes will be awarded in a variety of age groups. The course will cover mixed surfaces including pavement, gravel paths and some grassy areas. The race will start and finish on the Kent School campus. The Osprey Triathlon is open to racers aged 9 and over. Racers between the ages of 9 and 12 must be part of a relay team with at least one team member over 16 years of age. For those racers without a kayak, a limited number will be available for rent. Advance registration is required to reserve a kayak. Race registration may be found online by visiting www.kentschool.orgpage/giving/osprey-triathlon. The race begins promptly at 9:00 a.m. and will be held rain or shine

The Fall Fest is a new addition to the events of the day. Games and activities will include a petting zoo, a dunking booth, ladder golf, fish ping pong and much more. Musician, Terrick Denny will be performing live music. With food trucks and other refreshments on site, Kent School’s Fall Fest will have something for everyone. The Fall Fest will be open from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and will be held rain or shine.

Jen Matthews ’01, Director of Development and Alumni Relations and coordinator for these events said, “The Osprey Triathlon has grown over the years with the number registrations closing in on our 200 racer capacity. This year, with the addition of the Fall Fest, we expect our campus to be brimming with people, energy and activity.”  Matthews continued, “A lot of volunteer work goes into planning and preparing for these events. I would like to thank members of our PTF (Parents, Teachers and Friends) for their support as well as our sponsors, especially our lead sponsors Baird Wealth Management, Gunther McClary Real Estate, RealTerm, David A. Bramble, Inc., FAM&M and Peoples Bank.

For more information on the Osprey Triathlon and Fall fest, contact Jen Matthews ’01 at [email protected] or call 410-778-4100 Ext. 350. Kent School, located on the bank of the Chester River in historic Chestertown serves boys and girls from Preschool through Grade 8. Visit www.kentschool.org for more information.

Kent School is located at 6788 Wilkins Lane in historic Chestertown. For more information call 410-778-4100 ext. 110 or visit www.kentschool.org. Kent School serves children from Preschool through Grade Eight on its scenic campus on the bank of the Chester River.

Friday, June 8 marked the 49^th Graduation ceremony at Kent School. Thirteen members of the Class of 2018 were recognized for their achievements and contributions to the Kent School community during their years. In her remarks, Head of School Nancy Mugele stated, “There is a ‘big, bright, beautiful world’ waiting for you and I know you are ready. Kent School has given you an extraordinary foundation and instilled in you a love of learning – a love, I hope, will last you a lifetime. We have taught you how to think for yourself and how to ask good questions. You have learned many lessons outside of the classroom as well and have grown into empathetic, honorable and responsible citizens.”

Chris McClary ‘91, President of the Board of Trustees, addressed those gathered and presented the Navigator Award. The award is presented to an individual who has made a special contribution of time, talent, or treasure to Kent School over a sustained period of time, made a difference in the educational experience of a range of Kent School students, and supports the school mission to help each student reach their full potential. This year the Navigator Award was presented to not just one person, but a family who has been deeply involved and committed to Kent School for over 40 years. The Willock Family started their journey with Kent School in the 1970’s when John and Judie enrolled their daughter Jill Willock Caron ‘83 as a Kindergarten student. Two years later, Susan Willock ’85 entered Kindergarten. Since then, John, Judie, Jill and Susan have remained close to Kent School in a variety of roles including Trusteeship, and Parents, Teachers and Friends (PTF) leadership, as well as through their philanthropic support. Susan returned to Kent School as a teacher and Director of the Little School program from 1999 to 2003. Jill is the parent of two Kent School graduates, Jamie‘13 and Sarah ‘15. Jill has been, and remains, a loyal and flexible substitute teacher. Their most important role, which has helped sustain Kent School, is that of Friend of the School. Their tireless support has been instrumental in Kent School’s success as we reach the 50^th   Anniversary.

The 2018 Graduation ceremony provided the opportunity to recognize three members of the faculty who are retiring this year, Kate Bennett, Pam Deringer and Holly Roddy. Kate leaves her role as Music and Drama Teacher after 23 years. Pam, who is credited with developing and growing Kent School’s nationally recognized Chesapeake Bay Studies program is leaving after 25 years of service. Finally, Holly Roddy is retiring after 20 years of teaching Seventh and Eighth Grade Literature and Language Arts. Each of these teachers has had a positive impact on every Kent School student in different ways. They will be missed but we congratulate them and wish them the best in their well-deserved retirement.

Several annual awards were presented to students at the Graduation ceremony. Each year, the Brian B. Kane Scholarship Award is presented to a Seventh Grade student who maintains a determined effort to produce quality work. The person has an attitude that is helpful, cooperative and responsible. This year, Tait Tavolacci embodies these high standards. The Americanism Award is presented by the Frank M. Jarmon American Legions Rock Hall Post 228 and emphasizes the qualities of courage, honor, leadership, patriotism, scholarship service. The Americanism Award was presented to Andrew Baughman. Sage Cookerly was the recipient of the Joan C. Merriken Award for Excellence in Literature. Sage earned this award because of his demonstration of a love of reading, an appreciation of and sensitivity to the writer’s art, and an ability to respond to literature in an intellectual level as well as an emotional level. The final award of the day, The Osprey Award was presented in recognition of the student who best represents the positive qualities of character and excellence to the Kent School Community. This contribution can take many forms: athletic, artistic, academic or personal. This year, The Osprey Award was presented to Danielle Simmons. Student speakers were Reed Ferguson and Lexi Norman. Reed spoke of the importance of the relationships he developed with teachers through the years and shared experiences between he and his classmates. Reed said, speaking of his ritual arrival to school each morning, “I have gotten so used to this morning routine, that I haven’t appreciated the amazing environment that is my second home.” The second student speaker was Lexi Norman who reflected on her journey from Preschool through Eighth Grade and how fast that time has gone. She concluded with a message to current Kent School students. “Make every moment count. Trust me, it will be worth it.”

Following all remarks, each student was introduced with personal comments written by their advisors as they received their certificates. Members of the Class of 2018 will be attending the following secondary schools: The Gunston School, The STEM Academy at Kent County High School, and St. Andrew’s School.

For more information about Kent School visit www.kentschool.org. Kent School, located in historic Chestertown, MD is an independent day school serving children from Preschool through Grade 8. The School’s mission is to guide our students in realizing their potential for academic, artistic, athletic, and moral excellence. Our school’s family-oriented, supportive, student-centered environment fosters the growth of honorable, responsible citizens for our country and our diverse world.

Kent School will offer several summer programs for children from age 3 to 12.  For the youngest children, ages 3 to 5, Kent School is offering two week-long sessions of Little Camp. Little Camp is led by Kent School teachers, Julia Gross and Karen Schauber. The first session of Little Camp, Seuss on the Loose will be held June 18 – June 22. Campers will explore everything Seuss through art, literature, science and physical activity.  The second session, Beach Party, will run June 25 – June 29. In Beach Party campers will create, imagine, read about and investigate who and what can be found during a trip to the seashore. The camp day runs from 9:00 a to 4:00 pm. Extended day is available starting at 8:00 am. and is also available until 5:00 pm. The camp fee is $185 per week. Extended day care is $10 per hour. Visit kentschool.org for more information. Call 410-778-4100 ext. 110 to request a brochure or email [email protected].

In addition to Little Camp, Kent School will also host YMCA summer programs for the second consecutive year. The YMCA will offer week-long Preschool camps for children ages 3 and a half to age 5 starting the week of June 18 and concluding the week of August 13. Themes will include Paw Patrol, Storybook Station, Petite Picasso and much more. Specialty camps, for children ages 5 – 12 will include sessions for children who want to cook, build, create and explore with session like Mad Scientist, Glee Camp, Nerf Madness, Sweet Shop and many other terrific choices. The full catalog of YMCA camp offerings will be available soon. Visit the YMCA of the Chesapeake website for more information at ymcachesapeake.org.

Nancy Mugele, Head of School at Kent School said, “We are looking forward to having a busy summer with dozens of children enjoying our beautiful campus. In addition to Little Camp and the YMCA summer programs, Kent School will also be hosting Horizons of Kent and Queen Anne for six weeks.” Mugele continued, “It is a pleasure and an honor to host these wonderful programs that will keep children actively engaged in learning and fun during the summer months.”

For more information about Kent School visit www.kentschool.org. Kent School, located in historic Chestertown, MD is an independent day school serving children from Preschool through Grade 8. The School’s mission is to guide our students in realizing their potential for academic, artistic, athletic, and moral excellence. Our school’s family-oriented, supportive, student-centered environment fosters the growth of honorable, responsible citizens for our country and our diverse world.

Members of Kent School’s Class of 2018 will perform Shrek, Jr. On Friday May 11 and Saturday May 12. Both performances will begin at 7:30 pm. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend. The performances will take place in the M.V. “Mike” Williams Gymnasium.

Shrek is the story of an Ogre who is sent out by his parents at the age of seven to find his place in the world.He encounters fairy tale creatures, a Dragon, the evil Lord Farquaad, and a Princess in a tower. There is also a comic Donkey who befriends Shrek and joins him on his adventures. The 8^th Grade spring musical has been a tradition at Kent School since the school began in 1968. The Director is Jim Landskroener, the Musical Director and accompanist is Kate Bennett, and the Art Director is Pat Parkhurst.

Cast:
Storyteller 1 – Lexi Norman
Storyteller 2 – Georgia Gillespie
Storyteller 3 – Tessa Schut
Mama Ogre – Cami Lord
Papa Ogre – Flynn Bowman
Little Shrek – Reed Ferguson
Shrek – Andrew Baughman
Captain of the Guards – Zach LaFleur
Guards – Jake Cerino, Flynn Bowman, Reed Ferguson
Pinocchio – Flynn Bowman
Big Bad Wolf – Jake Cerino
3 Little Pigs – Sage Cookerly, Abby Russum, Tessa Schut
Wicked Witch – Cami Lord
Peter Pan – Lexi Norman
Ugly Duckling – Georgia Gillespie
Mama Bear – Danielle Simmons
Papa Bear – Evan Gervais
Baby Bear – Reed Ferguson
Donkey – Sage Cookerly
Lord Farquaad – Tessa Schut
Gingy – Evan Gervais
Child Fiona – Lia Schut (4th Grade)
Teen Fiona – Lexi Norman
Adult Fiona – Abby Russum
Puss in Boots – Danielle Simmons
Knights – Jake Cerino, Flynn Bowman, Evan Gervais, Reed Ferguson
Dragon – Cami Lord
Pied Pipier – Zach LaFleur
Bishop – Danielle Simmons
Dwarf – Reed Ferguson
Trees – Tessa Schut, Danielle Simmons, Abby Russum
Residents of Duloc – Company

Shrek Jr. is based on the Dreamworks Animation Motion Picture and the book by William Steig. The Book and Lyrics are by David Lindsay-Abaire, and the Music is by Jeanine Tesori.

For more information about Kent School visit www.kentschool.org. Kent School, located in historic Chestertown, MD is an independent day school serving children from Preschool through Grade 8. The School’s mission is to guide our students in realizing their potential for academic, artistic, athletic, and moral excellence. Our school’s family-oriented, supportive, student-centered environment fosters the growth of honorable, responsible citizens for our country and our diverse world.

The Visual and Performing Arts program at Kent School will be in the spotlight at the opening of the Spring Arts Celebration on April 25. The public is invited to attend a Chorus performance, hear selections from the upcoming Eighth Grade Musical, Shrek, Jr. and view the All School Art Show. The opening performance begins at 6:00 pm and admission is free. Following the performance, guests are invited to view art on display throughout the school. Light refreshments will be served.

Nancy Mugele, Head of Kent School said, “A rich and diverse visual and performing arts curriculum is essential to the fulfillment of our mission which is to guide children in reaching their potential for academic, artistic, athletic and moral excellence. Our Spring Arts Celebration is a testament to that commitment.” Music teacher, Kate Bennett has been working with students in every grade level at Kent School to prepare for the event. Lower School students will sing and third grade students will play recorders. Following those grade specific performances, the Kent School Chorus, an after-school program which is open to students from grades three through eight will perform. Following the Chorus performance, members for the Eighth Grade will perform a song from their upcoming musical, Shrek, Jr. Performance dates for Shrek, Jr, are May 11 and 12 at 7:30 pm. This performance is also free and the public is invited to attend.

Examples of student artwork from Preschool through Grade 8 will be on display throughout the halls of the school. Guests are invited to view the art following the musical performances. The Visual Arts curriculum at Kent School covers a wide array of media, themes, and subjects. Student work will include ceramics, mobiles, sculpture, painting, charcoal and more. Art class is frequently integrated with language arts, social studies, science or history classes. Pat Parkhurst, Art Teacher at Kent School said, “I really enjoy collaborating with my colleagues and I intentionally bring topics from history, science and literature into art. Students have a more meaningful understanding of what may inspire artists or styles of art. We know from our mind, brain and education science research, that this multi-modality teaching inspires deeper learning for all students.”

Mugele continued, “We are proud to highlight our students’ accomplishments in the arts. We truly believe that creative thought and creative problem solving are skills that must be cultivated for success as our students move into higher learning and future careers. Secondly, the connections made by students through our interdisciplinary approach to arts integration enhances learning.”

For more information about the Arts Celebration at Kent School, visit www.kentschool.org or call 410-778-4100 ext. 110. Kent School, located in historic Chestertown, MD is an independent day school serving children from Preschool through Grade 8. The School’s mission is to guide our students in realizing their potential for academic, artistic, athletic, and moral excellence. Our school’s family-oriented, supportive, student-centered environment fosters the growth of honorable, responsible citizens for our country and our diverse world.