Middle school is more than a bridge between elementary and high school. It is a unique and important stage in a student’s development—academically, socially, and emotionally.
At Island Pacific Academy, a new initiative is strengthening the middle school experience by supporting students through this critical period of growth. The program focuses on helping students build confidence, develop strong study habits, and navigate the social and emotional changes that often begin during the middle school years.
Led by Elementary Principal Sa’o Faulkner and Secondary Principal Steve Ross, and supported by a generous $50,000 grant from the James & Abigail Campbell Family Foundation, the initiative will support students from Grades 4 through 9.
Program Highlights
Faculty Development with Middle School Expert
IPA has partnered with nationally recognized middle school educator, author, and speaker Jack Berckemeyer. Berckemeyer is working closely with faculty to strengthen IPA’s middle school model—from schedules and classroom expectations to understanding the early onset of adolescence.
He will also host a special parent event to help families better understand the developmental needs of middle school students and how to support them at home.
Strengthening Math Instruction
To support academic success across grade levels, IPA is partnering with math education consultant Wes Yu, founder of YUUreka Mathematics. Yu has worked with schools throughout Hawaiʻi to strengthen math instruction, deepen conceptual understanding, and address learning gaps.
Expanded Social Emotional Learning
Students in the secondary division will participate in a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Advisory program held four days each week. The 30-minute advisory sessions will provide a year-long curriculum tailored to each grade level and based on the widely used CASEL framework.
Sixth Grade Guidance Course
All sixth-grade students will also participate in a guidance course as part of their quarterly rotation. Taught by Middle School Counselor Sara Schaedel Baffoe, the class focuses on study skills, social-emotional learning, and the transition into middle school.
The course helps students build healthy habits and self-awareness as they navigate new routines, relationships, and responsibilities.
Supporting the Elementary-to-Middle School Transition
As part of the initiative, Tori Rooke will serve as Elementary School Counselor, working closely with Baffoe to support Grade 4 and 5 students as they prepare for middle school. Their collaboration helps ensure students experience a thoughtful and supportive transition into the middle grades.
Through these program elements and partnerships, Island Pacific Academy is strengthening its approach to middle school education—helping students grow into confident, compassionate, and capable learners as they prepare for high school and beyond.