As we educate the whole child, we recognize that Middle School is a special time in a child’s education. There is an opportunity for personal growth and academic challenge, a desire for comfort and elbow room, adult advocacy, and growing independence. Every Seven Hills student participates in a small mixed-grade advisory group of Middle School students and an educator/advisor who meets twice each week of the school year.
The purpose of advisories is to provide:
a place of comfort, a place to feel at home and belong
diverse and cross-grade social contact
a one-to-one relationship between advisor and advisee for communication and direction
a staff member who has a thorough knowledge of the student’s strengths, weaknesses, needs, and personal growth
an adult advocate
communications with parents
primary contact for students, parents, and other teachers
peer problem-solving and support opportunities in a small group setting
an overview of a student’s school experience
Our operating axioms are:
Advisors are educators with an affinity for the Middle School child and have an understanding of adolescent development
Groups are crafted with extensive input from all past and participating educators
Groups balance gender and age
Social/emotional training gives students a way to recognize, understand, and choose how to think, feel and act
Groups deepen their service-learning by working on community service projects
Advisory is a cool place to talk with friends about school and what is happening in your life – we have deeper discussions without judgment. Your advisor is an advocate you can go to at any time. - Caroline, Middle School student