There are many benefits to a preschool-to-eighth grade trajectory. In fact, studies show that it’s ideal for children’s development. Children perform better academically and socially when they attend a school that ends in eighth grade. And those aren’t the only reasons.
“If I could design psychologically safe schools, every elementary school in the United States would go from kindergarten through grade 8.”
Michael Thompson, psychologist and NY Times best-selling author
Stay Younger Longer
A PS-8 school allows your child to stay younger longer. High schools have very different social and academic pressures. Even with separate buildings, younger kids in K-12 schools are influenced by what’s happening in high school.
All Resources for PS – 8th Grade
All our resources are devoted to younger children, rather than diverted to expensive high school programs. When the choice is between expenditures in lower school or in high school, high school almost always wins out.
Better Academic Results
In a phenomenon known as “top dog status,” research shows that middle school students’ academic performance is better when they attend a PS-8 school, rather than a K-12 or grade 6-8 school.
Greater Sense of Belonging
Students who go to the same school for lower and middle schools and then switch for high school feel a greater sense of belonging and experience less bullying.
Develop Middle School Leaders
Here, our middle school students aren’t in the middle! Children benefit from being the leaders of the entire student body during middle school, and they rise to that responsibility.
Solidify Students’ Faith
The early years are a key time for children to clarify their religious beliefs. It’s an important time for your family’s religious values to be reinforced at school.
Ready For Change
After as many as 12 years in the same school, eighth graders are ready for a change. Many look forward to moving on and outgrowing their middle school image. They leave confident and ready for the new chapter of high school.
Choose the Best Fit for High School
In the early elementary years, there’s no way to know what high school will be the best fit for your child. But by eighth grade, you’ll know your preferences and be in a great position to make that decision together.
Guidance During Transition
All children must learn how to manage the anxieties of a new environment. Better to have them learn the in’s and out’s of this kind of transition while they’re still under your roof to guide them, rather than away at college.
When we chose ROBS, we liked the fact that it ended at eighth grade so our girls would learn to change environments before they left for college. Having a deeper knowledge of our child helped us make the best choice from among Houston’s varied high schools. ROBS prepares students and parents to find the high school that is right for each child.
