As students enter their seventh and eighth grade years, they also participate in carefully designed extracurricular experiences aimed at strengthening the skills and dispositions that will support their successful transition to high school.
Whether they choose to attend a public or independent high school, our goal is to help students reflect on their strengths and develop confidence as they step into the next stage of their educational journey–and life.
Core Elements of Our High School Readiness Program:
| Academics |
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| Through advanced coursework in math, literature, science, social studies, and world language, students develop the analytical, writing, and study skills required for success in a variety of high school settings. Capstone projects, such as the Moving On speech and Eight Grade Portfolios, prepare students to write with voice and purpose. |
| Interview Night |
| A signature event for eighth graders, this evening brings adult volunteers from the broader community to campus, where students practice high school and job-style interviews in a supportive, realistic environment. They receive immediate feedback, helping to build confidence and communication skills. |
| SSAT Prep (Optional) |
| For students applying to independent schools that require standardized tests, we offer structured support in preparing for the SSAT exam, including practice materials and strategies. |
| Career Café |
| Middle school students meet with adults from a range of professions to learn about career paths and the many ways people pursue meaningful work. These informal conversations encourage curiosity, personal reflection, and connection between academic interests and real-world opportunities. |
| Lunch & Learn Sessions with Admissions Representatives |
| Students meet admissions officers from a wide range of high schools, gaining insight into different school cultures, programs, and application expectations. |
| Alum Panels |
| Princeton Friends young alums return to share their high school transition experiences, offer advice, and answer questions. Hearing from peers helps students feel grounded and reassured about what’s ahead. |
| Faculty Mentorship & Family Partnership |
| Advisors work closely with students and families throughout the high school search and application process, offering individualized guidance, written recommendations, and support in navigating school visits, interviews, and decision-making. |
Through this multi-faceted program, students emerge from Princeton Friends School not only academically prepared for high school, but also socially and emotionally equipped to advocate for themselves, pursue their passions, and thrive in new environments.
