Eighth GradeA year of culmination, leadership, and new beginnings.
Eighth Grade brings students to the threshold of high school, where they reflect on how they have grown not only in knowledge, but also in character, confidence, compassion, and purpose. As they complete their journey at Cedar Springs, students begin to recognize the unique gifts they carry and the responsibility that comes with using those gifts to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the wider world.
The curriculum encourages students to think deeply about the forces that have shaped our modern world. Through the study of the American Revolution, the founding of the United States, global revolutions, the World Wars, the Civil Rights Movement, and contemporary issues, students examine themes of justice, freedom, leadership, and social responsibility. They are challenged to consider multiple perspectives, ask meaningful questions, and recognize the power individuals have to shape history and create positive change.
The Modern World
Language Arts emphasizes thoughtful analysis, clear communication, and authentic self expression. Through literature, creative writing, essays, and research, students refine their ability to think critically, develop persuasive arguments, and communicate their ideas with confidence. A hallmark of the year is the Eighth Grade Project, an independent exploration of a topic chosen by each student. This capstone experience invites students to pursue a personal passion, develop expertise through research and mentorship, and present their learning to the Cedar Springs community.
Language Arts and the Eighth Grade Project
Mathematics builds confidence and prepares students for the transition to high school. Whether deepening foundational concepts or advancing into Algebra, students continue developing perseverance, precision, and flexible problem solving while applying mathematical thinking to increasingly complex challenges.
Mathematics
Science
Scientific studies encourage students to investigate the interconnected systems that shape both the natural world and modern life. Through Physics, Organic Chemistry, and Anatomy, students explore the principles that govern our world while strengthening their capacity for observation, experimentation, and scientific reasoning.
Experiential Learning and the Class Play
Experiential learning remains at the heart of the eighth grade year. Students participate in community service, collaborative projects, fundraising, outdoor experiences, and a class trip that strengthens leadership, initiative, and responsibility. Preparing and performing a full length class play offers every student the opportunity to contribute their unique talents while building confidence, teamwork, creativity, and perseverance.
Music, Handwork, and Community Life
Music, Handwork, Farming and Gardening, Games and Movement, and Social Emotional Learning continue to nurture these young people, providing opportunities to create, collaborate, reflect, and care for one another and the world around them.
The eighth grade year concludes with Graduation, a cherished Cedar Springs tradition that celebrates each student's journey and honors their readiness to step into the wider world. As they leave our campus, we hope our graduates carry with them not only strong academic foundations, but also compassionate hearts, courageous spirits, and a lasting commitment to living with purpose, integrity, and service.
Melissa Hiatt
Our Teacher
Melissa’s career began as an exhibition designer for museums in California and New Mexico and evolved into curatorial writing for art catalogs and books. She has been published as an art writer and critic in magazines and newspapers. Melissa was a class teacher at Davis Waldorf School before joining the High School Humanities Department at Sacramento Waldorf School in 2010 and is Pedagogical Director at Waldorfologies.com, a Waldorf High School resource for homeschooling families and teachers. Melissa is a graduate of UC Davis. She lives on an oak-studded hillside in Shingle Springs with her family, eight chickens, six sheep, two dogs, two cats, and a flock of wild turkeys.