Eighth Grade

Wheeling Country Day School offers Eighth Grade for children twelve and thirteen years old. WCDS Eighth Graders put all of their knowledge and skills together, showcasing their development over the years. 

We unlock the power in our Eighth Graders to learn and enjoy learning at our Middle School Branch Campus at Wheeling Park.

In Eighth Grade, we continue to provide core foundations in math and language arts, while introducing them to project-based learning that challenges the students to apply all subjects (math, science, history, global studies and more) as they work together with each and on their own.

Teachers work with the students to find problems and work through a proven framework to solve the problem by using a variety of skills, such as (math, science, engineering, reading, and more) to find their own way to solving real-life problems.

Creative & Skill-Based Courses

In addition to the traditional subject areas, students participate in fine arts, physical education, foreign language, and technology classes. An emphasis on the fine arts has been a part of the school since its inception. Biweekly classes in art and music are highlights in the children’s experiences. Daily physical education classes enhance physical development, while the morning intramural program fosters team relationships across grade levels. Children learn to use both the library and the computer as valuable resources for information. 

Deep Dive - Hands-on Learning

The Deep Dive class provides a hands-on and immersive learning experience. Students participate in various projects, like building stationary bikes to generate power and constructing bike repair stations. They go on bike rides to explore the surrounding areas, applying their knowledge of bikes and mechanics. The class fosters teamwork, problem-solving skills, and safe usage of power tools, empowering students to take ownership of their projects and witness the tangible results of their hard work.

An Emphasis on Character Development

Character development instruction highlighting respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring, and citizenship complements the academic offerings. Each teacher weaves this special program into the class’s regular curriculum.

English - Literature Exploration

In the English class, students are engaged in a literature exploration journey. They read various literary works and actively participate in discussions using the ‘Say Something’ strategy. Through this approach, they share questions, predictions, comments, and connections, fostering critical thinking and deeper understanding. The students also practice writing from different perspectives, such as poems, journal entries, and microfiction stories, honing their creative and expressive writing abilities.

Technology & Culture

While being part of the Wheeling Country Day School community, children prepare for an increasingly global, technological society with language and culture classes as well as technology instruction. In addition to studying Spanish and French, students explore the rich cultural heritage represented by the school’s families. Special school-wide and classroom activities throughout the year expand this understanding of the relationship between self and community. At the same time, students receive computer instruction preparing them for the world’s technology and their participation in it.

Algebra

In the math class, the focus is on building a strong foundation in algebraic concepts. Students are learning to simplify expressions, combine like terms, and apply distributive and associative properties. They are currently exploring scientific notation and radicals, with plans to tackle equations and rational numbers later in the year. The classroom environment encourages a growth mindset, where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, and collaborative activities help build confidence in problem-solving skills.

Sports, Clubs, & After School Activities

Wheeling Country Day School extends its curriculum by offering students a variety of clubs that they may join. Middle School students have the ability to participate in select sports including swim team, cross country, golf, tennis, martial arts, and more. 

Parent-Teacher Communication and Community Involvement

Throughout the year, the school emphasizes the importance of parent-teacher communication and community involvement. Regular updates and newsletters keep parents informed about student progress, upcoming events, and opportunities for involvement. The school encourages parents to participate in meetings and discussions, providing valuable feedback and fostering a strong partnership in supporting students’ educational journey. This collaborative approach strengthens the school community and ensures students thrive in a supportive learning environment.

8th Grade Teachers & Staff

Brittney Farris

MS Science

Carrie Ochap

Middle School/Middle School Director

Chelsey Keding

Music

Damon Rouse

MS English

Joe Jividen

Middle School / Director of Communications

Margie Howells

MS Math

Before & Aftercare Programs

Our before and aftercare programs are designed to help the student and the parent. Drop your students off early or pick them up a bit later and feel comfortable knowing they are safe and still learning.

Tutoring & Multisensory Learning

Edge at Wheeling Country Day School is an on-campus instruction center for students with language-based learning differences. 

Internships & Special Programs

For students ready to graduate from Second Grade, Wheeling Country Day School offers exceptional Third Grade education.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the English class encouraging student engagement with literature?

The English class is fostering student engagement with literature through the ‘Say Something’ strategy, where students actively participate in discussions by sharing questions, predictions, comments, and connections while reading.

How does the school encourage parent involvement in their child's education and school activities?

The school actively encourages parent involvement through various opportunities, such as parent-teacher meetings, community discussions, and participation in events like the ISACS Visiting Team’s campus visit. Parents play a crucial role in providing feedback and support for their child’s educational journey.

How does the Deep Dive class promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills?

The Deep Dive class nurtures critical thinking and problem-solving skills by engaging students in hands-on projects. Through designing and building their exhibition pieces, students are encouraged to think creatively and find innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

How does the school ensure a safe and secure campus environment during regular school hours?

The school ensures a safe and secure campus environment during regular school hours by implementing access control measures, surveillance systems, and regular staff training to address safety concerns promptly.

Application

Apply Now

Applying online is easy with WCDS. Complete and submit your online application. This application confirms your interest and prompts the school’s consideration of your child. You can download and submit the records release form if your child currently attends kindergarten or above. 

Schedule Your Visit

Schedule Now

The school takes great pride in the fact that the Head of School meets with each family to engage in a mission/philosophy conversation. Admissions Events offer this group opportunity or you can contact the Admissions Office for special arrangements. 

Experience WCDS by coming to the campus for an age-appropriate visit with faculty and peers. 

Diversity Statement

Learn More

WCDS seeks to purposefully build an environment that reflects and honors diversity. We honor the dignity of every human being, and we respect and value differences including but not limited to socioeconomics, race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, culture, sexual orientation, gender identity, and family composition. Our community is committed to ongoing dialogue, education, and reflection to develop understanding and inclusion of every member.

Experience WCDS

Schedule a School Tour or Classroom Visit

Observe our curious and engaged students and teachers in their classrooms and throughout our spacious campus with its grass playing field, classroom courtyard, and outdoor amphitheater. Sit in on classes that give great attention to a curriculum that matches the optimum times for learning within a child’s first ten years.

Upcoming Middle School Admission Events

11Jan

Prospective Family Day (PS-5th)

9:30 am - 11:00 am8 Park Road
21Jan

Reimagine Middle School – Prospective Family Day

6:00 pm - 8:00 pmWheeling Park Campus