The middle school years can feel like a big leap. At Grosse Pointe Public School System, the three middle schools aim to make that leap feel a little more grounded — for both students and their families.
One way they do that is by easing students into the experience. “From the moment our incoming fifth-grade classes tour our middle schools, they are partnered with mentors who help them learn the culture of their middle school,” says Rebecca Fannon, Director of Communications.
Through the WEB (Where Everyone Belongs) program, older students guide newcomers with personalized tours and support, helping build early confidence and a sense of connection.
That feeling continues at 5th-grade camp each fall, where students from different elementary schools come together as one middle school community.
“We believe that if you build relationships first, students have the courage to step outside their comfort zone and soar,” Fannon says.
Offering a personalized education in and out of the classroom
Academically, Grosse Pointe’s public schools offer both challenge and support. Students are placed in the courses that best match their current level, whether that means advanced math or extra help in reading or writing. Teachers are content-area experts, and the curriculum builds steadily across core subjects like science, social studies and language arts.
“GPPSS meets the needs of every student every day,” Fannon says. “Our approach is tailored and personal.”
Electives play a big role in that. In addition to art and music, students can try out courses in broadcast journalism, woods and metals, digital art and more, giving them a chance to explore interests they may not find elsewhere.
Music also plays a significant role across all grades, with options in band, choir and orchestra starting in fifth grade. Students can participate in statewide festivals, travel for performances, and commit to a rhythm of rehearsals that builds discipline and collaboration.
Beyond the classroom, students can join more than two dozen clubs — everything from robotics to fishing — and join in interscholastic sports in seventh and eighth grade. If a club doesn’t exist, staff encourage students to create one.
Making transitions from elementary to middle school easier
Another detail parents may appreciate is that the fifth-grade structure includes a small-team model where students learn from two to three core teachers, maintaining a more elementary feel while introducing new opportunities. And there’s still time for recess and PE on alternating days.
Fannon says that while these middle schools are rich in opportunity, they also rely on strong parent partnerships. “Parents and guardians here are active and engaged in their students’ success,” she says. “We recognize you have options, and we believe we can exceed your high expectations for your child.”
Middle school can be a time of growth and discovery, and at GPPSS, students have room to explore what interests them while getting the support they need.
This content is sponsored by the Grosse Pointe Public School System. To learn more, visit the Grosse Pointe Public School System website — and discover more metro Detroit schools in the Best Schools Guide.
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