Supporting the elementary to middle school transition through WEB programming 

‘Where Everybody Belongs’ sets up middle schoolers for success 

Implemented during hybrid learning in 2021, “Where Everybody Belongs” (WEB) at District 191 middle schools is a transition program aimed at welcoming incoming sixth graders and helping them feel comfortable and supported as they navigate their middle school experience.

The WEB program supports students as they make the transition from elementary school to middle school and encounter new challenges, such as opening a locker, finding classrooms and meeting new people. At its core, the program is designed to create a safe, positive learning environment where all students feel accepted and valued. It also provides opportunities for kids to connect with their peers, develop lasting friendships and learn skills that will help them be successful in middle school and beyond.  

WEB programming is facilitated by teachers (advisors). This year’s advisors include Laura Hermansen, Ryan Mokandu and Madison Thorton at Eagle Ridge Middle School (ERMS) and Katy Hemmah and Adam Iverson at Nicollet Middle School (NMS). Eighth-grade students interested in a leadership role apply and interview in the spring of seventh grade, and then attend WEB training with advisors during the last week of summer break. Leaders are assigned to a small group of students that they’ll mentor and support on the first day of school, which is an orientation day of sorts, and throughout the school year.

During the year, WEB programming includes an array of learning activities and opportunities that are built into advisory periods. WEB leaders present lessons to their groups during these periods. Academic lessons typically cover skills that contribute to middle school success while social follow-ups provide leaders and their assigned group an opportunity to connect and build relationships. 

WEB leaders are also responsible for supporting school events beyond just the first day of school, including open houses, new student tours, fifth-grade visit days, advisory lessons and more. 

WEB develops student leaders

The WEB leadership teams at schools consist of students interested in being a role model to the younger students and building a positive experience at school for themselves and their peers. They play an important part in helping sixth graders and newcomers feel welcomed and supported as they transition to a new school. 

Many students want to become WEB leaders because of the way the program supported them during their first year of middle school and helped make their experience a positive one.

Through WEB, leaders develop a variety of skills, such as patience, listening, problem-solving and conflict resolution, and have the opportunity to support their peers in many ways.  

ERMS student Arianna Cameron has leaned into her role as a leader, focusing on building relationships with others and being responsible and kind. She feels like she’s grown socially, emotionally and academically through WEB.

“As a sixth grader, I was really scared to start middle school,” said Arianna. “It’s really important for new students to feel like they belong and can ask anyone a question. I just try to make everyone feel included.” 

“I became a leader because I wanted to help sixth graders understand and feel comfortable with middle school, because school should be a really safe place and not something to be afraid of,” said ERMS leader Grace Duncan. “Mental health is really important – and the sense and feeling of belonging in a place where you can just be yourself is what the program is all about. It’s such a beautiful feeling to know that you can go to anyone and they’ll be able to help you.” 

Katy Hemmah believes that it’s so impactful when students recognize themselves as leaders in the school. 

“Over the course of the year, their confidence grows as they take on more responsibilities. They’re excited to help out and be involved in making the school a better place,” said Hemmah.

Where Everybody Belongs impacts school culture 

As both middle schools continue to adapt and build upon their WEB programming, they are providing meaningful traditions and opportunities for students as well as creating a school culture that embraces inclusivity and kindness.

Staff has made a strategic effort to create a culture where students take pride in their community, find a sense of belonging and feel that they are valued. Since the implementation of the WEB program, advisors have seen a positive shift in school culture.

“It’s a testament to the power of peer leadership,” said WEB advisor Laura Hermansen. 

From a programmatic standpoint, Madison Thorton believes there’s definitely more student buy-in. WEB programming helps students understand how their actions impact the community as a whole. As a result, many students want to positively impact their school and make it a safe space to learn.    

“There’s such a strong, positive culture here,” said Thornton. “Like, seeing these students show up and take the initiative to support their peers is super, super awesome.” 

“Leaders understand that their attitude, effort and behavior play an important role in creating that culture,” said Hemmah. “It motivates them to set an example for other students in our school.”