Building a bridge between elementary and middle school is no small feat, but at East Aurora Middle School, our students are leading the way. This week, the EA Blue Devil Podcast sat down with three of our dedicated 8th-grade W.E.B. (Where Everyone Belongs) Leaders—Molly, Penny, and Blake—to discuss how they are making a difference in the lives of our 5th graders.
Hosted by Roxanne Perry, District Website and Social Media Manager, the episode explored the heart of the W.E.B. program: connection. Watch the full episode here!
More Than Just a Welcome
While many recognize W.E.B. for the high-energy orientation day—complete with music, bubbles, and the famous "Gauntlet" welcome—the leaders emphasized that their work continues all year long.
"Our job is to make sure the 5th graders have a safe, fun, and comfortable way to come into the middle school," explained Blake, Commissioner for the Social Committee.
The program is structured around three specialized committees:
Social Committee: Focuses on community-building events like ice skating and school-wide activities.
Academic Committee: Leads Social Emotional Learning (SEL) lessons in 5th-grade classrooms, helping younger students navigate complex emotions.
Staff Celebrations Committee: Ensures that teachers and faculty feel the "EA Spirit" through events like the annual holiday scavenger hunt.
Students Leading Students
For Penny, Commissioner for Academic W.E.B., the motivation to join was personal. "Middle school is a difficult time," she shared. "I wanted to help the 5th graders be more comfortable because having an 8th grader who knows you and is your friend makes such a difference."
Molly, Commissioner for Staff Celebrations, noted that the joy goes both ways. "The W.E.B. program is so special because it brightens the 5th graders' day, but by doing that, it brightens our day too."
Looking Ahead
As the school year progresses, our W.E.B. leaders are keeping the momentum high. From upcoming Social Emotional Learning (SEL) lessons to planning Teacher Appreciation Week in May, these students are proving that leadership is about more than just a title—it's about making sure every Blue Devil feels at home. We couldn't be more proud of our students. Way to go EA! Learn more about our Social Emotional Learning foundation as well as the W.E.B. program on our website at eastauroraschools.org.
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