Navigating new beginnings

The transition from elementary to middle school is a pivotal moment in a young person’s life. After spending years in a familiar environment, stepping into middle school brings new academic challenges, social dynamics, and a growing sense of independence. Recognizing the importance of this shift, St. Paul is launching a new event designed to support students and families during this time of change.

On Sunday, June 8, 12:30 p.m. in the Library Commons, St. Paul hosts Transitioning to Middle School: Navigating New Beginnings. This special gathering is open to any student transitioning into middle school or junior high school. For most students, that time means entering sixth grade in the fall, but for a few, this transition happens in seventh grade. Students and their families are invited to a lunchtime gathering for a chance to connect with peers, share experiences, and receive guidance from trusted leaders. Director of children’s ministries Maddy Carroll and Youth director Ellie Lindmark lead this intentional time together, offering insight and encouragement for the transitional aspects of this time of great change both in school and at church. Families can sign up online.

“The main objective of this purposeful time is to help kids feel confident as they transition into middle school—equipped not only with the skills they need, but also with the comfort of familiar faces beside them,” Maddy Caroll said. “One of the things that makes St. Paul special is the lifelong bond students build from kindergarten through high school and beyond. They experience milestones and transitions like this one together, creating a strong, rooted community. It’s worth coming just to see how we can help kids thrive through every stage of their journey and help ease any nerves about the changes ahead. Hopefully, kids will walk into this next chapter knowing they’re not alone, and that they have a supportive community walking with them.”

This event is part of St. Paul’s broader commitment to walking alongside young people throughout their growing-up journeys. Through this “678” ministry—designed specifically for students in grades 6, 7, and 8—St. Paul provides a faith-centered community where youth can explore identity, build lasting memories, grow in faith and in community, and experience transformation.

Opportunities for students in grades 6, 7, and 8 include this month’s 678 Week as part of the summer fun experience, 678 Sunday gatherings during the school year, and monthly 678 nights full of games, fun, togetherness, and worship.

“Programs like 678 were huge for me during my middle school years. I looked forward to those times together so much. They gave me a space to be silly, to play games, and to build friendships rooted in faith—friendships outside of school centered around deeper conversations,” youth director Ellie Lindmark said. “As an 11-year-old, 678 helped me discover what I liked and helped form who I was becoming. That kind of impact sticks with you. Now, I’m excited to have the opportunity to walk alongside this new group of kids. This will be the first group I get to see grow all the way from sixth grade through high school. Watching them step into middle school and eventually graduate—it’s going to be such a joy to grow together, to laugh, to learn, and to see how God shapes each of their stories.”

Middle school can be complicated, but no one has to navigate it alone. With intentional support and a welcoming community, St. Paul ensures that every young person knows they are valued, loved, and always have a place to belong.

Mark your calendar:
Navigating new beginnings
On Sunday, June 8, 12:30 p.m., Library Commons, students entering sixth grade in the fall and their families gather for support and connect with peers during this transitional period as they prepare to enter middle school. Sign up now.