Mrs. Amy Jefferis
Eighth Grade
WELCOME TO EIGHTH GRADE!
The eighth grade year at St. Ignatius School is one that is busy and filled with many opportunities to develop and to learn in a supportive, faith-filled and fun atmosphere.
FAMILY GROUPS
At the very beginning of the year eighth graders are commissioned as leaders of the school at the first all school Mass, the Mass of the Holy Spirit. This Mass marks the beginning of their journey toward confirmation. As family group leaders, they will help to lead their “families” in a variety of activities and events including the Pumpkin Patch with the first grade, letters to Santa with the kindergarten, and a school-wide field day in May.
DEDICATION TO SERVICE
Eighth graders have opportunities to serve in the community. Once a month, after school, students help prepare our parish’s monthly meal for the Transition Projects program in Old Town. Every other month, students help serve the meal to the men in the program on site in downtown Portland. This coming year, students will have new opportunities to live the gospel values that we aim to promote here at St. Ignatius. Students also prepare and serve meals on a monthly basis at Blanchet House in downtown Portland.
SWEATSHIRTS
Another highlight of the eighth grade year is to design and to wear a special eighth grade sweatshirt. Wearing a sweatshirt that is different from the uniform is always fun and something that students really look forward to being able to do.
ACADEMICS
The academic program of eighth grade involves an eight period day with a break in the morning and a 40 minute lunch period. As the homeroom teacher, I teach Religion which is a study of the Church – past and present, as well as mathematics. Students will take Algebra I or Pre-Algebra, English, Reading, Physical Science, Music, Computers and Physical Education. Our standards are high and we help students develop the skills that will serve them well in high school and beyond.
HIGH SCHOOL
The high school decision making and application process also take place in eighth grade. In September, the Catholic high schools visit to talk about their programs and in October and early November, the high schools host open houses for prospective students. Students take a placement exam in December and applications are due in January. Those students who will attend their local public high school are assisted in the registration and class selection process, as well.