In most schools, ninth grade marks the beginning of high school. The transition can be socially, emotionally, and academically challenging as students are immediately expected to maintain a traditional high school schedule with little to no support. Athletically, ninth graders may struggle to make the few slots available on a varsity team. But at Cardigan, the ninth grade year becomes a year of preparation when students can progressively take on more responsibility for their learning and life skills.
The ninth-grade year at Cardigan, while following a rigorous and traditional ninth-grade curriculum, allows students another year of guided study and preparation, ensuring that they are ready for independent learning and self-advocacy in high school. Through the Gates program, ninth graders can also take year-long classes that develop entrepreneurial skills, including problem solving, perseverance, critical thinking, and long-term planning.
And as the year progresses, the ninth-grade teachers give students more independence and more opportunities to make their own choices about when and how to study. Independent projects become important as students learn how to budget their time and conduct their own research––balancing academic, athletic, and social commitments. At Cardigan, ninth grade is an important year of preparation, allowing students to continue to grow and mature and further develop the skills necessary for success in high school.
The ninth-grade year at Cardigan also gives students a unique opportunity at a young age to be leaders and mentors to younger students. At Cardigan the ninth graders return to school several days before the rest of the students and participate in leadership activities, preparing them for the responsibilities they will be expected to carry out throughout the school year. From being table leaders during sit-down meals to overseeing dorm clean-ups, from sitting on the Captains’ Council to mentoring new students, the ninth graders are held to high standards and expected to be role models to the younger members of the community.
Ninth grade at Cardigan also allows students another year to mature physically, allowing time to train and prepare for high school athletics. Because of the range of teams and athletic opportunities, students can continue to explore different sports or train to compete at the next level.