Grade 8s: A New Perspective

14 May 2015Linnea M & Tara B, Allard ’17

In the past year, our campus has been gradually taken over. The invaders sneak in and out of the shadows; you don’t see them, but you know they’re there. Hiding out in their den in the Bunch, they come out only for the occasional snack and fresh air. You know who we’re talking about. The Grade 8s. As most of you know, Brentwood started its first ever Grade 8 exclusively day program last September. We Photojournalism 10 students were given the opportunity to take a quick visit to the Grade 8 class and have a chat with them. They told us what they liked and disliked about the program. There are lots of perks of being a Grade 8: they get their own lunch period (they skip the lineups that the rest of the school must survive) and the best advantage of all, no school on Saturday morning! We were told of the many different activities that the Grade 8s have enjoyed. They have done everything from kayaking, to cooking, to beekeeping, to learning how to do laundry. Mrs. Patel, the Grade 8s’ lovely teacher and her colleague, Mr. DeSandoli, have also been rigorously preparing them for the demanding life of high school. Throughout the year they have tried out every sport, and are currently on their rugby unit. Mr. Brent Lee, Head of IT, has also taught them many useful tech skills. They’ve really gotten a taste of everything this past year. Being the guinea pigs of this program, this group of kids have some advice for the incoming Grade 8s. First, don’t procrastinate; you will regret it. Second, appreciate how good you have it. Third, seize all the opportunities that Brentwood offers. It took a little getting used to, but we think that we speak for the rest of the Brentwood ‘seniors’ when we say that the Grade 8s have become valuable part of the Brentwood Bubble. It wouldn’t be the same without them. Linnea M & Tara B, Allard ’17

Where Students Choose To Be