Knowledge, Life Skills, and Memories: An MDS 8th Grade Backpack

Spring at MDS is full of energy, both kinetic and potential. The kinetic energy is evident in the excitement bubbling in the children as they look forward to spring and summer breaks, prepare for the school musical and all the end-of-year activities, and complete Units of Inquiry. I see the potential energy in our eighth-grade students as they prepare to transition into high school. 

To use an Outward Bound metaphor, our eighth graders are leaving the safety of the harbor and launching into the exciting new world of high school. This could be a sad or scary moment, but it’s not. MDS students leave the “harbor” with a full backpack, one they have worked tirelessly to fill with rigorous academics, a nurturing community, the guiding principles of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile, and memories from their years at MDS. It is with this mix of academics and personal development that they leave with the character and mindset necessary to thrive in a complex and ever-changing world. 

This mindset is built through continual practice. Throughout their years at MDS, students have endless opportunities to become critical thinkers and effective communicators. Most recently, I saw this demonstrated as students confidently and effectively shared the year-long 8th-grade Personal Project with parents, mentors, and schoolmates. Strong research skills, time management, and presentation skills are essential for students in high school and beyond. 

The potential energy has increased over many years. The high-achieving success of our MDS graduates speaks volumes about their preparedness to lead, serve, and thrive. I proudly watch our eighth-grade students leave the “safety of the Harbor” and step, with very full backpacks, confidently into high school not only as capable scholars but also as compassionate leaders and lifelong learners.

Proud to be a Titan,
Dr. Mikusa
Head of School