5th Grade Scholars Program

Since 2019, this Carver after-school program students introduces 5th graders to Middle School expectations.  All the students are assigned to a homeroom which they attend directly after the dismissal bell at 3:25 PM.  Students then have a few minutes to eat a healthy snack and prepare for the Carver experience. Study hall and homework help are first. Certified teachers and assistants are available to help and in certain cases, students help each other.

Not only are the 5th-grade scholars developing good study habits, but they are also exploring and challenging their abilities in an elective enrichment class four times a week. Students are breaking barriers by facing their fears, completing challenges, enhancing skills, and building teamwork abilities. Later in the school year, the students make presentations on all of their hard work.

These academic and enrichment experiences complement what the students are learning during the day in class. The courses are presented in a different way from the regular classroom setting. 

When transitioning to middle school, concerns arise regarding procedural changes. Students are worried about being thrown into an environment of independence and responsibility—an environment significantly different from any educational experience known to date. They are expected to get to and from classes on their own, manage time wisely, use a locker, organize and keep up with materials for multiple courses, be responsible for all classwork and homework from various teachers, and at the same time develop and maintain a social life.

Although young adolescents cry out for independence, they also need protection, security, and structure. Expectations are difficult to meet if they are unknown. The new procedures and rules are a significant concern for upcoming fifth graders who are transitioning to sixth grade. These substantial and small details impact young adolescents’ social, emotional, and academic experiences.