Starting a new school year can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially for students transitioning to a new school. But at Milford Junior High, a new program called "Where Everybody Belongs" (WEB) is making sure that incoming seventh graders feel right at home from day one.
The journey to bring WEB to Milford began when Principal Misty Goetz applied for a grant through the Milford Schools Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for the Milford Exempted Village School District through community partnerships and contributions.
The grant enabled Milford Junior High to send three staff members—counselors Jenna Chambers and Julie Beelman, along with teacher Jen Bruce—to an intensive three-and-a-half-day training session led by the Boomerang Project. These trained staff members then brought their knowledge back to the school, where they shared it with other educators eager to participate.
"Initially, we trained three staff members," Goetz explained. "But when they returned, they were so enthusiastic about the program that 14 or 16 additional teachers volunteered to get involved. It was incredible to see such a strong response from our staff, who were willing to give up part of their summer to make this program a success."
The core of the WEB program involves eighth-grade students serving as mentors for incoming seventh graders. These eighth-grade "WEB Leaders" underwent training during the spring and summer to prepare for their roles. One of these leaders, Brooklyn Bauer, expressed her excitement about being part of the program.
"When I found out I could do this, I immediately said yes," Brooklyn shared. "I’ve moved schools twice, and it was so nerve-wracking. Coming to a new, big building was very scary, but I was just glad that I could help make other seventh graders feel welcome.”
Goetz believes that the benefits of the program extend beyond just the new seventh graders. "It's beneficial for the eighth graders as well. Many of them were nervous about making calls and leading groups, but they rose to the challenge. It's been a great leadership experience for them."
As the first year of the program has just started, the response from students and staff has been overwhelmingly positive. "I think this is a great way for students to start the school year feeling less nervous and more connected," Goetz noted. "The feedback from the kids has been great—they've had fun, and some have already expressed that they feel less anxious about the transition."
The WEB program marks a significant step in Milford Junior High's ongoing efforts to create a supportive and inclusive school environment. Thanks to the Milford Schools Foundation and the dedication of the school's staff and students, Milford Junior High is well on its way to ensuring that everyone—new and returning students alike—feels like they belong.