The eighth grade is clearly a pivotal year in a student’s academic life—the culmination of childhood, and the springboard into high school readiness and young adulthood.

As such, our eighth grade curriculum takes students from the past into the present day, with a journey through the history of noble achievements in science, math, history and literature.

Throughout the year, eighth graders are recognized as responsible and active citizens of our school community, they serve as first-grade buddies and volunteer within the school. A highlight of the year is the eighth-grade project, where students choose a subject for exploration, source and work with an independent mentor, and present their results to the school community.

To celebrate the maturity and self-reliance of the eighth grader, the school year ends with an extended class trip, which celebrates their time together, and provides a new adventure in which they serve and learn.

• Language Arts: Short story writing, composition, grammar, speech and drama
• Literature: Revolutions (French, Industrial, American), American History
• Mathematics: Algebra I, geometry
• Science: Physics, chemistry, meteorology and physiology, including human fertility
• History: Modern revolutions, American history
• Geography: Global geography
• Spanish: Each student compiles a portfolio that showcases their understanding of grammar, phonetics, vocabulary and culture
• Physical Education: Circus arts: juggling, balance skills, acrobatics, gymnastics and Team Sports: volleyball, soccer and basketball.
• Handwork: Sewing machine quilting
• Woodworking: 3-legged stools
• Music: Recorder, singing and string ensemble
• Art: Acrylic painting, clay modeling, charcoal and form drawing
• Eighth Grade Trip: A wilderness, passage or service experience

Peter Lawton

Peter Lawton joined City of Lakes Waldorf School in 2002, leading his first class to graduation in 2010. He holds a Bachelor of Music in voice from Manhattan School of Music, a Master of Arts in education and a Doctor of Education in policy and administration from the University of St. Thomas, and a Waldorf teaching certificate from Arcturus Rudolf Steiner Education Program. Before joining the faculty at City of Lakes Waldorf School, Peter taught middle and high school math for Minneapolis Public Schools. Click here to read Peter’s reflections on our annual alumni panel and how this event provides a unique opportunity for self-reflection, and a chance to compare our ultimate hopes and dreams for ourselves and our children, with our operative ideas regarding education, culture, and parenting.