Smooth Sailing into the School Year: East McDowell Middle School’s Summer Bridge Program

Helping East McDowell Middle School students build peer friendships and enhance their cooperation and collaboration skills, the Summer Bridge program is designed to ease their transition from 5th to 6th grade.

Transitioning from one school level to another can be a daunting experience for many students.

Recognizing this, East McDowell Middle School offered a unique and engaging solution: the Summer Bridge program.

This two-week initiative is designed to ease the transition for students moving from 5th to 6th grade. The program focuses on helping students build peer friendships, enhance their cooperation and collaboration skills, and have fun through creative projects.

One of the highlights of the Summer Bridge program is the boat-building project.

Teams of students are given simple materials—duct tape and cardboard—and tasked with creating a functional boat. This activity not only sparks creativity but also fosters teamwork and problem-solving as students work together to design and construct their vessels.

The excitement builds throughout the two weeks, culminating in the 2nd Annual East McDowell Middle School Summer-Bridge Boat Regatta.

Held at Lake James State Park the second week of August, this event is a thrilling showcase of the students' hard work and ingenuity. The regatta sees the teams racing their handmade boats, providing both a fun and memorable experience and a sense of accomplishment as they see their collaborative efforts come to fruition.

The boat-building project is more than just a fun activity; it embodies the core goals of the Summer Bridge program. By working together on a challenging and creative task, students form strong peer connections and develop essential skills that will serve them well in their academic journeys. 

In its essence, the Summer Bridge program at East McDowell Middle School is a celebration of learning, teamwork, and community.

It helps students start their new school year with confidence, new friendships, and a sense of belonging. As students race their boats at Lake James State Park, they are also racing towards a bright and successful future, equipped with the skills and relationships they need to thrive.