With the recent remodeling of Memorial School, 5th graders were thrust into Frank Ward Strong School. As these students integrated into the middle school, various clubs were formulated to help them grow accustomed to the new environment. Despite the several programs devised in response to this drastic change, I couldn’t help but notice the significant shift in expectations placed on these young individuals. Perceiving glimpses of my former self in these adjusting students, I began to recall the abrupt transition from elementary school into middle school. After my peers and I repeatedly watched our younger siblings torture our parents with assigned work (with minimal warning and preparation), we began planning the initiation of Fifth Grade Homework Help. 

Through this DECA-led mentorship program, we hoped to support students as they adjusted to increasing homework loads and academic expectations. Twice a month, Abigail Cyrus and I designed and ran engaging sessions that supported the content fifth graders were learning and helped reinforce any material they were struggling with. Each meeting, we focused on making learning both productive and enjoyable by creating learning games and interactive activities tied directly to what they were learning.

In addition to allocating time for homework completion, we played Pictionary, The Unfair Game, Jeopardy, the paper game, a writing competition, bingo, and several other fun activities tailored to the interests of members. We hoped to get the students excited about what they were learning and to ensure that they comprehended the material they were taught in the classroom setting.

Here’s what some of the fifth grade members had to say about the program:

Devil’s advocate (DA): What was your favorite thing about the program?

Ellie Skinner (ES): I loved getting to hang out with my friends and learn more through the many games we played.

DA: What valuable lessons did you learn from the program? 

ES: Teamwork and patience through team games and challenging problems.

DA: What about this program has helped you the most?

Evelina Garbacz (EG): The activities help me better understand subjects, especially science [ecology, solar system, water cycle], which is difficult for me.

DA: What was your favorite memory from the program?

EG: When we won the unfair game by a TON of points.

DA: What would you tell another student thinking about joining?

Mackenzye Brady (MB): The helpers are kind and fun and they make learning easier through all the games about the American Revolution, which I have struggled with.

DA: What was something new that you learned?

MB: Both perspectives of the Boston Tea Party, which helped me understand why the Patriots performed the act and why the Loyalists opposed it.

DA: Have you found this program helpful?

Mackenzie Soboleski (MS): Yes, it helps me finish homework quicker because of the time we get and it helps me learn better through the fun games.

DA: How has this program changed the way you feel about school or homework?

Katelyn Parmelee (KP): The math games helped me because I’ve never really enjoyed math, but these made me feel more confident in the subject and pushed me to put more effort into my learning. Now, I feel more confident raising my hand in class and helping students around me that are experiencing difficulty in similar areas.

DA: Did this program make the transition to Frank Ward Strong School easier? How?

KP: Yes. It helped especially when we first moved since everything was new and challenging to adjust to. 5th Grade Homework Help made learning much simpler and encouraged us to have fun and work together at the same time. We had never used many of these methods before and they really helped me expand on my skills and rely less on my parents for homework/project completion. 

Before starting this program, I viewed learning mostly as completing worksheets and note-taking. Through working with younger students, I have learned that learning becomes far more meaningful and comprehensive when students are engaged, supported, and truly excited about what they’re doing.

Though challenging, organizing the program has been deeply rewarding. Watching as the students build confidence, form friendships, and feel more comfortable with the middle school setting over time has been incredible. With only one meeting remaining, this year’s program is coming to a close. We hope to continue Fifth Grade Homework Help next year and support another group of students as they transition into middle school.