Frequently Asked Questions

You might have heard from an older family member or friend that middle school is different from elementary school. It's true that middle school has a lot of academic challenges that grade school does not, and for good reason! Middle school helps to prepare you by giving you the skills you need to succeed in high school.

However, as your classes get harder, you will also get more freedom to explore ideas and to work on your own, both in and out of the classroom! (Opportunities outside of the classroom will be discussed more in question 5.) Additionally, at Griffith, you will have support from staff, teachers, admin, and your peers.

You will have different teachers for every class, and you will have to move between classrooms to meet each one. Classes often have technology integrated into them, so you will use a Chromebook frequently. In 6th grade, you will meet with 4 teachers every day: 1 teacher will teach you English and History, 1 teacher will teach math, science, and an elective, and the last teacher will teach PE. After the first year, every day has 7 class periods, and Bulldogs get out early on Tuesdays. Each teacher runs their class a little differently, so it's a good idea to learn how each class runs! This is a skill that will help you succeed not only in high school, but in college and in the workplace as well.

Electives are classes that you can state a preference for. As of right now, Griffith STEAM offers a range of STEAM-based electives. In Culinary Arts class, students can learn and practice cooking. Robotics and Game Design introduce analytical thinking skills in fun, hands-on ways. Yearbook, Theater, and Leadership are also great classes for those who want to focus on improving their communication and teamwork skills. In Horticulture class, students can learn all about planting and gardening.

Griffith requires a uniform that includes light blue button-up or polo shirts and dark blue/navy bottoms. Jackets should be navy blue or school spirit, and preferably not hoodies. There should also be no visible logos/emblems on your uniform.

There are occasional opportunities for Free Dress Days, but you don't need free dress to stand out-- your personality will shine through even in uniform. The full uniform policy can be found here.

A good school doesn't stop at just students and teachers. Griffith has counselors to help you with your grades , plans for the future, and even your relationships with peers, parents, and Griffith staff. Our school social worker can also help you with emotional and psychological burdens in your life.

There are plenty of chances to get involved in the Griffith community outside of the classroom as well, including cheerleading, sports, robotics, the Student Advisory Board, the Mindful Gardeners and Griffith Garden Volunteers, and the student groups hosted every semester in the library.

Griffith is a multilingual school! We provide materials and communication in both English and Spanish whenever necessary, and welcome students regardless of their bilingual proficiency.

Don't worry and try to get everything all at once! You can expect to bring a bag, lunch (if you don't get lunch from the cafeteria), and things like a pencil/paper on the first day, but every teacher will usually explain to you what's required for their class so you can get them after school starts. You can also look out for or Google local events that provide free school supplies, as these events usually happen just before (or during) the beginning of the school year.

While it is true that it's important to study hard, Griffith is also a community. Bulldogs will have chances to get to know each other in classes, student life groups, after-school activities, during library activity groups, and at recess and lunch. Middle school is a great time to explore what you're interested in while learning from a wide range of subjects. You might find new friends who have similar thoughts, dreams, and goals along the way.

Bulldogs also uphold Griffith community values that encourage everyone to be a good person to their family, friends, and peers. These values are: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship. Keeping these values in mind can help you make sure that you have friends for life.

It's normal to be confused or scared about new situations, and the transition from elementary school to middle school is definitely one of those situations. Nevertheless, I'm sure that you can handle it! You've learned so much in school leading up to this point, both as a student and as a citizen, to prepare you for this point in your life.

It's a good idea to know the school staff and what they do in case you need them. You shouldn't be afraid to ask for anything you need-- the school exists for the students, not the other way around! It's also a good idea to stay organized, since you'll have less reminders about what you need to do than in elementary school. You can organize your subjects by keeping your folders, binders, and computer folders clean and tidy. Organizing your time is just as important-- you can do this with paper planners, phone apps, or even just a journal. The best kind of organizing plan is the one that works for you!

Finally, be kind and understanding to everyone you meet. This will go a long way. Good luck, future Bulldogs! And welcome to Griffith.