Celebrating the Middle School and Upper School Connection

“Upon completion of the new Middle School, this is a historic year that it is the first year that the Upper and Middle School students are physically separated,” said Isabel Snee ’18 at an All-School Morning Meeting presentation. Isabel briefly shared her experiences interning with Sandy Palmer’s seventh-grade science class this year before introducing the video, which featured reflections from her fellow interns and celebrated the Middle and Upper School connection.

CIA agents, as the interns are called, have ample opportunities to hone their leadership, communication and problem-solving skills, while directly giving back to the NA community and dedicating their time to connect with Middle School students. “The CIA aims to bridge the gap and enhance the relationship between the Middle and Upper Schools students at NA by providing seniors the opportunity to collaborate with Middle School teachers, observing and eventually teaching in their Middle School classrooms.”

 

Interested in learning more about teaching, Isabel dove right into her new role as a CIA agent. “I spent the first few classes observing the classroom, getting a feel for not only the teaching style but also the class dynamic. I was able to plan lessons and help the class with their lab work. Although I was wary to teach physics and astronomy in front of almost 20 kids, I realized that this opportunity is unparalleled and it served as a great way to challenge myself. After completing my teaching role for my class, I formed bonds with not only Ms. Palmer but also all of the students in the class.” This experience, she says, gave her a completely new perspective on the classroom.