Sixth Grade
Beginnings Are Important
At SBMS, our sixth graders may be few in number, but they are big in courage and heart! Choosing to leave the familiar comfort of elementary school, these students embark on an exciting new adventure into middle school life. As a smaller cohort than our 7th and 8th graders, the 6th grade class enjoys unique opportunities to shape their learning experience, day-to-day activities, and expeditions.
This close-knit community forms a strong foundation that helps them thrive both academically and socially throughout their time at SBMS.
Sixth graders benefit from the small class size in the sense that they receive more one on one time with their teachers and a slower pace to the year - more built in time to complete homework assignments, meet with their teachers to get extra help, and more help with organization and studentship skills.
Their deep bonds benefit them in all collaborative endeavors—from the City-State project in Social Studies, to hands-on science labs, to sharing their creative writing in English class. Feeling safe and supported by one another allows these students to take risks, explore new ideas, and grow with confidence.
The highlight of the year, our March “Bikes n BOBS” trip to Ojai, is all about 6th grade camaraderie, fostering even deeper connections as they build lifelong memories together.
Sixth-Grade Curriculum
6th grade highlights
- 5-day Ojai BOBs Trip - designed to strengthen relationships and build new ones as we cycle with our gear to and from Ojai.
- Balance between technology and going "unplugged" with pen/paper.
- End of Year Marin Expedition - 10 days of epic mountain biking.
- Cycling Without Age - partnering with this local organization to get students interacting with the elder community of Santa Barbara.
- Weekly seminar class - Movies That Matter, Dopamine Menus, Conference Preparation.
- Portfolios - students build personalized websites highlighting their academic work and reflecting on their efforts.
- Smaller overall grade size allows for deeper connections, more one on one time if students need support.
- Sustainability Week - visit local farms, waste recycling centers, beaches, and investigate our own consumption.
6th Grade Faculty

Marco Andrade
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Jenna Berry

Pam Boswell

Cassie Childs

Danny Fitzgibbons

Amanda Lipiec

Erin Riley

Angie Rose
