Elementary News

ALASKA ACADEMY MIDDLE SCHOOL ORIENTATION JOURNEY: “I AM AN ALASKID – I CONTRIBUTE TO ALASKA”

 

The 3-day orientation program at the start of the new school year for Grade 6 and Grade 7 Alaskids at Alaska Academy Middle School has successfully concluded, opening up a new journey filled with emotions and meaningful experiences.

This was not only a time for the students to get used to their new learning environment but also an important first step in building their identity, pride, and sense of responsibility toward our shared home.

Learning to understand and love where you belong

The back-to-school journey began with helping students connect with the school’s space and culture. Alaskids explored the meaning, history, and brand story of Alaska Academy, deepening their understanding and pride in the place they will call home for the coming years.

Right after that, team spirit was ignited as students officially joined their four “Houses”: EARTH, WATER, SUN, and FOREST. Through exciting team challenges, these four unique groups sat down together to discuss and propose practical actions to build a positive learning community. The children learned that dedication is not something far-off; it begins with the smallest, immediate actions that multiply happiness in the classroom every day.

Understanding oneself and connecting with companions

A special highlight of the orientation days was an interactive workshop with Dr. Ho Mai Hoa, a national lecturer on adolescent reproductive health. With a humorous, open, and practical approach, she helped Alaskids answer their private, teenage questions—ranging from psychological and physiological changes during puberty to adolescent friendships, love, and safe lifestyles. The greatest lesson from the session was learning to appreciate self-worth and actively building a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally.

Beside understanding themselves, students found a deeper connection with their peers through the “Buddy” matching activity. Each student chose a special companion to study with, share with, and support each other through challenges throughout the school year.

Confirming identity and stepping forward with confidence

Closing the 3-day experience, Alaskids handwrote ambitious “Letters to Myself in 2030” and proudly chanted their school motto: TOGETHER WE GO FAR. Every activity served as a small step bringing them closer to the school’s 5 core values:

  • Empathy: Connecting and listening to friends.
  • Resilience: Overcoming challenges together with their House.
  • Growth Mindset: Learning how to learn and proposing new ideas.
  • Integrity: Having a minute of courage.
  • Autonomy: Actively contributing and accompanying their Buddy.

Now, with their name tags, Passports, footprints, and letters to the future, each Alaskid officially owns a special “Alaska Journey Portfolio” to keep and build upon throughout their 4 years of middle school.

“Every dream is truly valuable when it begins with a decision today” — Alaska’s Emotion Station is proud to fully preserve these wonderful moments of our students. Alaska is happy to welcome you to our shared roof. The school is always ready to stand by your side. Wishing our dear Alaskids a new school year filled with loving hearts, open minds, and an endlessly exploring brain! 🌟🥰❤️