Middle school brings a whole new set of challenges for your child. As pre-teens navigate their school responsibilities and a growing social life, it’s more crucial than ever to provide a community where they’ll feel recognized, cared for, and safe.
Why is middle school safety so important?
In today’s world, as much as 20% of middle and high school-aged children report being physically or virtually bullied, which not only hinders their learning, it puts them at risk for a variety of future mental health struggles. As a parent, you want to do everything in your power to provide them with a learning environment where they feel a sense of security and belonging — a place where they can reach their full potential.
At St HOPE, we value what’s important to you as a family — your child’s safety and ability to thrive. As a NYC charter school, we’re solely focused on middle schoolers because we know this season is more than just a bridge toward high school. This is a formative time of life — academically, socially, and emotionally.
As you search for the right middle school for your budding scholar, here are some things to know:
Middle schoolers desire to belong.
At this stage in life, children develop a need to feel accepted. Studies show that peer pressure can be prominent in middle school. Your child needs to be surrounded by a community of positive teachers, peers, and mentors, and given opportunities to participate in healthy group activities.
At St HOPE, we want your child to form friendships that encourage and make them feel seen. We offer our scholars enriching opportunities to be a part of a team, such as our Athletic Programs, Debate Club, Math Club, Student Government, and the National Junior Honor Society. Through these clubs and group activities, your child will be empowered to pursue their passions.
Environment and culture all play a part in safety.
Children learn best when they feel respected for their identity. Middle schoolers can focus on their studies and be motivated when they’re secure — knowing that their environment is a safe space for them to learn, grow, and express themselves creatively.
At St HOPE, we prioritize our scholars’ physical safety by taking measures such as securing our campus perimeter, locking doors, using security cameras, and having a strong partnership with police officers in the community.
We do not tolerate any form of bullying — St HOPE places great effort in ensuring a culture of respect, love, and honoring each other. Our character development and counseling initiatives teach our scholars about being compassionate, understanding, and caring towards others. In 2016 and 2021, we achieved the National School of Character title, as the awarding body recognized how we embed character development into our curriculum, helping our scholars excel.
Family partnerships with the school are vital.
There should be alignment in how your child feels at home and at school. We believe that schools are responsible for communicating well with families so they can understand their scholar’s academic challenges and any other concerns in their hearts and minds.
St HOPE families are free to ask questions and gain clarity about their child’s development in school. Many families agree that our middle schoolers get the support they need because of how we encourage communication and partnership at home.
The learning here is phenomenal. The communication is amazing. I love the idea of paychecks and the incentives that are given at the school. The kids like the school, too. They want to come to school every day and they don’t want to be late. It’s a welcoming environment.
Ms. Ferguson, 2021-2022 Parent
Let your child feel seen and supported — learn more about St HOPE.
As you consider different school options, we hope that these safety insights have helped you understand how you can best support your child. Learn more about St HOPE by reaching out to Yamel Gonzalez, our Director of Student Recruitment and Enrollment.
Yamel Gonzalez