Grade 8 advisories at SPA provide a supportive homeroom where advisors help students build relationships, navigate Middle School expectations, and connect with one another. Morning check-ins and afternoon work-study periods foster social and academic growth, while guidance from advisors and peers helps students develop confidence, independence, and a strong sense of self.

In Grade 8, students have two or three academic classes per day and can expect about 30 minutes of homework per class, or roughly 90 minutes each evening. Parents can support by checking in regularly, providing a consistent, distraction-free workspace, and consulting with advisors if homework takes longer than expected or if a student needs extra guidance.

Each January, Grade 8 students spend a full week completely immersed in Chinese, French, German, or Spanish. Our Middle School language teachers, along with native speakers, international volunteers, and guest cultural educators, guide students through engaging daily language activities, interactive lessons, and hands-on cultural experiences that encourage speaking, listening, and understanding in a fun and meaningful way.

At SPA, Grade 8 students use school-issued laptops in all classes, building confidence and digital skills. Computer Science 8 reinforces technology ethics, while multimedia lessons prepare students for independent and responsible use in the Upper School. Students remain responsible for caring for their computers and learning how to communicate effectively.