WEB: Bridging the Gap from Elementary to Middle School

What does WEB do? WEB is a program that West Clermont Middle School uses to help 6th graders adjust to our middle school. Every year the upcoming 8th graders are chosen to become WEB leaders to help guide the 6th graders. When 6th graders come from their elementaries to the big middle school it is very scary for them. WEB helps these students to feel more comfortable and stable in the new school. The WEB leaders will do activities with the 6th graders on the first day of school to get them adjusted to the new building. After the first day of school, 8th grade WEB leaders will meet with their 6th graders monthly to teach them skills and strategies to use throughout their school year.

Photo Taken By Eileen G. 

A group of 8th grade WEB leaders

What are the benefits of WEB? WEB really helps 6th graders find comfort and safety in the new school building. Since these 6th graders have never been to the middle school we get the 8th graders that have been here for a couple of years to comfort and guide the new 6th graders. The creators of WEB thought that it would be better for actual students to help the 6th graders because they are kids also, and they have been in their place. Also the 8th graders could show them strategies and skills used in the school environment and also the environment outside of school. It can show the 6th graders how to act in the building and the expectations throughout the school itself. For example, the hallway expectation, and classroom expectations.

We interviewed a few 6th graders about WEB and about what they enjoyed about WEB. From one 6th grade student, “I really enjoyed WEB because my WEB leader would talk to me a lot and help through things I was struggling with.” This shows that WEB leaders really do take the responsibility in helping their 6th grade kids and helping them adjust to the new building.

Photo From West Clermont Middle School

A group of 6th grade students with their WEB leaders learning strategies to complete a challenge

Why should other schools have WEB? Having WEB in other schools can benefit students in many ways. Schools that have many buildings for different grades can benefit tremendously. WEB has allowed new students to feel comfortable and safe in their new school. Also it can help students think more strategically and be more responsible for their work. Not only will it benefit the new students in the building but also existing students. For example, our 8th grade leaders have learned many great qualities. They have learned leadership, responsibility and have gained many new friendships. Overall, WEB is an amazing program with many great opportunities. It also benefits everyone that is a part of this program.

Photo From West Clermont Middle School

6th grade students on the first day of school doing competitive competitions with our WEB program