8th Grade Experiences
8th Grade is a special year for students. They’re getting ready for high school, and St. Jude provides many opportunities to celebrate.
"Strive eagerly for the greatest spiritual gifts, but I shall show you a still more excellent way."
1 Corinthians 12:31
In their 8th grade year, students are invited to serve as sacristans at weekly Mass and to design and vote on a unique class t-shirt and sweatshirt that they may wear during the school year. In September, they visit St. Petersburg Catholic High School to participate in “Baron for a Day.” Last year, the class held its own Spirit Week, featuring events such as “Anything but a Backpack Day” and “Character Flock Day.” They also challenge the teachers to a volleyball game in the fall and a kickball game in the spring.
In May, the eighth graders help lead the Crowning of Mary. To prepare for high school, they complete exams in each core subject. The year concludes with the traditional end-of-year trip to Busch Gardens.