Research has shown that a middle school with a strong advisory program is beneficial in many ways. Advisory programs have the potential to ensure that every child has a meaningful relationship with an adult and belongs to a community of peers. Advisory meetings or CommUNITY Groups, as we call it, provide a safe environment in which students work through academic and social challenges.
The CommUNITY Group Advisory Program is an important part of the middle school experience at Unity. Each day has a different focus, giving students time to connect, work, learn, and have fun with their advisory group. Mondays are CommUNITY Group, where students check in, talk, and build relationships through meaningful conversations. Tuesdays and Thursdays are CommUNITY Lab, a dedicated time for students to organize their work, set goals, complete assignments, study, and get help when needed. Wednesdays are CommUNITY Focus, with lessons focused on executive functioning skills such as organization, time management, study skills, and being prepared for success. Fridays are CommUNITY Challenge, when groups compete in fun physical and mental challenges and earn points throughout the trimester.
The Advisors play an important role in making CommUNITY successful. Advisors are trusted adults who get to know their students, support them through academic and social challenges, and serve as a point person for both students and parents. Our goal is to create a group where students feel safe, accepted, supported, and comfortable being themselves. Students are also given opportunities to build relationships with adults and peers they may not know well, which is an important part of growing up and becoming more confident and independent. Through conversation, collaboration, play, challenges, and shared experiences, students learn to appreciate different personalities and perspectives while building connections across grade levels. CommUNITY is about making sure every student feels known, connected, and part of something bigger than themselves.
