Preparing Our 8th Graders for High School and Beyond

At McGinnis Woods School, preparing 8th graders for high school means we are committed to helping students grow academically, socially, emotionally, and as leaders. This is especially important during the middle school years, as students begin preparing for the increased independence, responsibility, and expectations of high school.

For our 8th graders, this preparation is intentional and meaningful. Students are given opportunities to take on greater independence in their learning while also developing the organization, confidence, and study habits they will need for future success. They are challenged to manage assignments, meet deadlines, complete long-term projects, and take ownership of their academic progress.

“Our 8th graders are challenged to manage assignments, meet deadlines, complete long-term projects, and take ownership of their academic progress.”

Building a Strong Academic Foundation for High School

Academically, McGinnis Woods helps students build a strong foundation for high school coursework. Students graduating from McGinnis Woods complete Physical Science for high school credit. In addition, students who successfully complete the required coursework may also enter the high school of their choice with credit for Spanish I and Algebra I. These opportunities help our graduates begin high school with confidence and a strong academic start.

Developing Research, Communication, and Presentation Skills

Our 8th graders also participate in assignments and projects that strengthen important high school readiness skills. Through presentations, research projects, writing assignments, the Technology Fair, and the annual Science Fair, students learn to organize information, think critically, communicate clearly, and present their work with confidence.

These experiences help solidify the research, writing, technology, and public speaking skills that will serve them well in high school and beyond.

Leadership Opportunities in Middle School

Leadership is another important part of the 8th grade experience. Middle school students have the opportunity to run for Student Council officer positions, where they help lead activities such as the annual Talent Show and School Store.

Student Council officers also represent McGinnis Woods during special events, including Open House, giving them real opportunities to serve as ambassadors for our school.

“Leadership is an important part of the 8th grade experience at McGinnis Woods.”

Learning the Importance of Service

Students may also participate in Jr. Beta Club, which encourages academic achievement, character, leadership, and service. Through Jr. Beta Club, students volunteer their time and talents with local charities and agencies, helping them understand the importance of giving back and making a positive difference in the community.

Taking Learning Beyond the Classroom

Each year, qualified 8th graders also have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., to participate in the Close Up Program. This powerful experience allows students to meet other 8th graders from across the nation while learning more about our republic, civic responsibility, and how government works.

Ready for the Next Chapter

By the time our 8th graders leave McGinnis Woods, they have benefited from many of the experiences that make McGinnis Woods different, and they are prepared not only for the academic challenges of high school, but also for the leadership, independence, service, and responsibility that come with the next exciting chapter of their educational journey.

In recent years our 8th grade graduates have gone to high school at local private schools, charter schools and public schools. These schools have included Kings Ridge Christian School, Mount Pisgah Christian School, Pinecrest Academy, Fulton Math and Science Academy, Cottage School, West Forsyth High School, Denmark High School, Alpharetta High School, Lassiter High School, Alliance Academy for Innovation, and Paul Duke STEM High School.

Many parents and former students have told us that the students are well prepared for the rigors of high school and are able to manage their class loads with ease. The students are also actively involved in AP and Dual enrollment opportunities and in sports, theater, student government and other activities in high school.