MAINE-ENDWELL MIDDLE SCHOOL – The sun shines down as a cool breeze rolls through in what was a picturesque Wednesday in Endwell for students and staff in our 6th Grade Summer Enrichment. From nature hikes through the creek, to a collaborative chalk mural, and even a game of whiffle ball, our new middle schoolers spent their entire day enjoying the outdoors. It was the perfect setting for our second-to-last day together, in what was aptly named “Wellness Wednesday.” In just a few weeks, these 6th graders will begin middle school, bringing with them the knowledge, friendships and confidence they’ve gained over the course of Summer Enrichment.
Getting prepared for that next step is one of the many goals of our 6th Grade summer program. From learning a new building, to familiarizing themselves with their schedules, middle school can often be a bit of an adjustment period for most students. But they didn’t have to do it alone. Along with our dedicated staff, nine former students returned to their former building to work with these middle schoolers each day of summer enrichment.
One of those former students is Class of 2024 grad Tannor Walker. Walker plans to study secondary education at SUNY Brockport, and says summer enrichment has been nothing but memorable. “These kids are amazing. Working with them this summer has been one of the best experiences I’ve ever had,” said Walker.
Walker spent each day moving from classroom to classroom, and says he’s seen firsthand how summer enrichment has prepared students for their future.
“I think this is one of the best things the school has created. These kids are forming friendships between Homer Brink and Maine Memorial. It’s great,” said Walker.
Matt Simek is one of the teachers helping run the 6th grade program. He credits former students like Walker for making each day a success.
"It’s really neat to see these guys come back and get to be on our side of things, supervising other youngsters. The way that they interact with the kids is really fun to watch,” said Simek.
Simek has also been impressed by the number of students who find a love for teaching following their time working in the program.
“I think that’s the coolest thing. They get the experience, and they go, man, this is actually pretty neat. I think I might want to be a teacher. I see what you guys get to do and I see how fun it is to be around young students. It’s a great experience,” said Simek.
Marleigh Demilio, a 2022 grad, is another former student helping with the program. She hopes the time spent in summer enrichment will only build confidence for these incoming 6th graders.
“Now they can go on their own, which is helpful, because middle school is a much bigger school than what there were in already. It’s great to see them grow and learn the school and get familiar,” said Demilio.
We’re excited to welcome our incoming 6th graders for our Middle School Walkthrough event, Tuesday, August 27th at 6 P.M.