WEB - Where Everybody Belongs

What is WEB?

• WEB stands for “Where Everybody Belongs.”  At Edythe J. Hayes Middle School WEB means that we welcome and embrace students from diverse backgrounds and who have unique talents, interests and characteristics.
• WEB is a yearlong program wherein 8^th Grade Leaders conduct experiential activities to prepare incoming 6^{th g}raders for middle school.  Activities include: A high-energy, inspirational Day 1 Assembly, monthly group activities, peer mentoring/tutoring, and structured gatherings.

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The Main Components of WEB

• 6^th Grade Transition:  WEB helps incoming 6^th Grade Students make a successful transition to middle school through a variety of high-energy, engaging activities and practical tips for success.
• 8^th Grade Leadership Development:  WEB promotes Leadership and Service in 8^th Grade students by providing training in leadership development, and organizing planned, intentional opportunities to serve incoming 6^th Grade students.
• Creating a Welcoming School Environment:  WEB helps to establish a positive climate of cooperation and mutual respect in our school by teaching 8^th Graders to treat 6^th Graders with respect, and by celebrating the unique talents, interests and characteristics of others.

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How it Works

• WEB Leadership Academy:  Selected eighth grade students will have two days of training during the summer to become WEB Leaders (“mentors” to incoming 6^th Graders), and will have training/support throughout the year to perform WEB Leader responsibilities.
• WEB Assembly:  On the first day of school all incoming sixth graders will participate in the WEB Assembly (Orientation), and then small group “friend-building” activities.
• Classroom Follow-Up:  WEB Leaders lead monthly Character Ed. lessons for all sixth Grade Classrooms (such as Integrity, Dealing with Rumors/Gossip, Responsibility, etc.).
• Social Follow-Up:  Periodic activities to foster school-connectedness, friendships, etc.
• WEB 1 to 1:  Pairings of WEB Leaders with specific sixth graders who may be struggling with grades, organization, peer relationships, etc.; may happen daily, bi-weekly, etc.