Taft Elementary School fifth graders embrace the magic of Washingtonville Middle School during tour

Fifth graders from Taft Elementary School were given a magical Wizard welcome during their tour of Washingtonville Middle School on Monday morning. This tour is designed for all elementary schools in the district, giving students a chance to spend time learning about middle school life and how to prepare for the transition coming this fall. 

The event began with a warm introduction from Principal Teresa Thompson, who shared information about the exciting classes available at the middle school, ranging from technology to cooking. Following her speech, sixth grade student ambassadors offered helpful advice to incoming students and highlighted a few things to look forward to, such as opportunities in student government and the use of lockers.

Next, WMS music teachers Samuel Shackleton and Hannah Haskell spoke with students about making their musical selections for next year, which included choosing between general, chorus or band classes.

“Finally, you don’t have to skip recess to play music!” Mr. Shackleton said. 

Afterward, they embarked on a tour led by enthusiastic eighth graders from National Junior Honor Society, who were eager to share their school.

Eighth grader Sophia Viernes expressed her enjoyment of the tour, saying, “My favorite thing about this was meeting new kids, bonding with them and showing them that middle school is really cool.”

Another eighth grade tour guide, Giordano Lott, shared her favorite moment as watching the younger students shift from nervousness to excitement. “I love getting to show them around so they’re not so scared when they come to the middle school,” she said.

With smiles and newfound enthusiasm, the fifth graders left ready to experience the magic of middle school this fall!