Weekly feature spotlighting each of our Eighth graders which asks them to reflect on their Middle School experiences and share some of the highlights and what they are most proud of.
Meet Zidaan Jair-Edwards
What is one of your favorite highlights from the middle school program?
One of my cherished memories from my middle school program was when I participated in the ten-day homestay program in La Herradura, Spain. This experience was an excellent opportunity for me to immerse myself in the Spanish culture and improve my Spanish language skills.
I remember feeling a bit nervous as I left my family behind and embarked on this adventure. But those fears quickly dissipated as I arrived in Spain and was greeted by my host family, who made me feel right at home. They were warm, welcoming, and eager to share their customs and traditions with me and my roommate. Living with a host family also allowed me to experience everyday life in Spain. Visiting other towns and learning about the culture helped me feel like a part of the community. I also developed a sense of independence as I navigated unfamiliar surroundings and interacted with people outside my usual social circle.
What skill(s) did you develop thanks to your Montessori/IB education that are you most proud of?
The skills that I am most proud of that I have developed are time management and collaboration. I worked with my teachers to learn ways that have worked for me to complete big projects and work with others. I was able to use these skills when planning for my year-long Community Project. I was able to plan ahead and create shorter deadlines in order to complete the project, and also reached out to others to join me in the project. I can bring these skills into my next project to make it better.
What will you miss the most after you graduate from PMonts?
I will miss my friends and teachers at Princeton Montessori after I graduate. During my years in Middle School, I have made great friends who have been so supportive. Whether it is in Rock Band, our annual Shakespeare play, or Montessori Model UN, everyone participates and helps each other be the best we can be. When I was a 6th grader, the 8th graders were our peer leaders. And now, as 8th graders, we are able to support the younger students. Teachers have always been there to help me when there was something challenging. I feel ready to go to high school but will miss the people I have spent the last three years with.
I will also miss lunchtime the most when I graduate from Pmonts. Lunch is the time of day when we can catch up and bond with friends, make plans for the weekend and just have fun. We often play outside or board games. I know I won’t get this kind of time in high school, so I will cherish these memories.
