The 6th-Grade Experience

 

A Challenging and Fun New World

From learning how to manage eight classes and a multitude of assignments, to dressing in crazy costumes for Spirit Week, sixth graders at Prep experience a whole new world of challenging academics and fun activities. Starting with back-to-school camps, sixth graders quickly become acquainted with their advisors, teachers, and each other. Whether taking a leap of faith on a ropes course at Camp Shaver or tackling their long-term LEAP (Learning the Ecosystems of Albuquerque Project), they are consistently encouraged to explore and experiment.

At the same time, our sixth-grade team of academics carefully tracks and supports students to ensure that their entire year of transition to Prep is smooth and successful.

At Sandia Prep, every sixth grader takes eight courses: 

 

Five Academic Courses:

  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • History (World Cultures)
  • Modern Language (French, Spanish, or Heritage Spanish)

 

One Full-Year Elective:

  • Chorus
  • Guitar
  • Jazz Band
  • Structured Study Hall
  • DareDevil Design

 

One Art & Technology Rotation Course (every 9 weeks):

  • Visual Arts
  • Performing Arts
  • Engineering & Computer Science
  • Digital Media & Communications


One Physical Education Course

Rotating Schedule

 

The Daily School Schedule for the 2024-2025 school year has changed. 

Sandia Prep’s daily schedule is an eight-class, eight day (A-H) rotating schedule.

Mondays & Fridays - Assembly & Advisory at 10:10 a.m.
Wednesdays - 9:00 a.m. start
Tuesdays & Thursdays - Activity at 2:15 p.m.
Middle School Lunch - 11:15 a.m.
Upper School Lunch - 12:20 p.m.

Click here to see a daily schedule example.

 

Assembly, Advisory, and Activity

 

Along with their sixth-grade classes described above, students attend middle school Assembly twice per week to learn about upcoming events, hear from guest speakers, celebrate accomplishments, and much more.

Twice a week, students also meet with their Advisory. The advisory group, which includes 8 – 10 students and their advisor, meets to share thoughts, ideas, information, and community. Throughout the year, students work closely with an advisor, a faculty member who tracks their progress and development during the year. As an advocate, the advisor is available to talk with students about any and all concerns, academic or otherwise. In addition, the advisor serves as the primary liaison between the school and parents, meeting with parents each semester to track the student’s growth.

We also set aside time for Activity period. This is a special time for students and teachers to enjoy various pursuits (robotics, Model UN, theater, newspaper, Academic Decathlon, speech and debate, eSports, and Mock Trial, for example) while building important relationships and crucial leadership and communication skills. With more than 40 activities offered each quarter, students can stick with a beloved activity all year or switch it up every nine weeks.

 

 

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM FELLOW STUDENTS

Curious about what to expect in sixth grade? Worried about making friends? What are the teachers like? Will you be buried in homework? Here’s some advice from students who recently finished their first year as Sundevils!

“Obviously the first day of middle school is nerve wracking, but remember that you got into this school because they thought you belonged here.” – Olive ’28
 

“I always get help from friends and teachers. It makes me happy to be here.” – Max ’28
 

“Don’t be afraid to be yourself and smile, because that usually makes you feel like you’ve been to Sandia Prep forever." – Elsie ’30

 

“First off, I don’t think you need any advice because you’re going to be loved and admired by everyone! But, just in case, be kind, understanding and (most important) be yourself!” – Frida ’28
 

“People at Prep are willing to go out of their way to help you.” – Isaac ’28
 

“Every single one of the staff is so nice. This is a true culture of kindness.” – Brett ’28