By Michael Chambers

Chambers’ students in her Lower School classroom. Photo credit: Michael Chambers.

My recent visit to Jamie Chambers’ 4th Grade classroom in the Lower School was an inspiring experience. As both a Collegiate student and the teacher’s son, I had the remarkable perspective of seeing my mom in action as an educator. Chambers has taught at Collegiate for four years and is known for her dedication to fostering leadership and confidence in her students. She sees 4th Grade as a pivotal time when children begin to find their voices, set personal goals, and embrace responsibility. From morning greetings as Campus Cubs to nightly readings and book goals, these young scholars are enjoying their last year in Lower School but are excited for years upcoming in the Middle School. 

“My goal is to help them see the value of their own hard work,” Chambers explained. “This is the year they learn they’re capable of so much more than they realize.”

Chambers’ 4th Grade Class Schedule Photo credit: Jamie Chambers.

This 4th Grade class is filled with memorable personalities, each with their own passions and hopes for the future. Among these young scholars, Ann Brooks (‘33) has an eager interest in detailed, realistic fiction, so Chambers enjoys creating peaceful writing sessions that allow the students to explore their creativity. On the other hand, William (‘33) finds joy in the challenge of math and reading, explaining, “I love the repetition, it helps me get better every time.” Wade (‘33) enjoys social studies, finding topics like immigration fascinating. This commitment to growth is also echoed in their reading groups, where students dive into novels and practice paragraph writing, aimed at sharpening their skills at a 4th Grade reading level. To keep the students engaged and growing as readers, Chambers’ goal for them is to complete 30 books each year, with an expectation of 10 books per trimester. To support this, students dedicate 30 minutes each night to reading, helping to develop a lifelong love of literature. 

Students are anticipating the academic and social experiences awaiting them in Middle School. Cole (’33), for example, is excited about pizza every day at lunch, though he admits he’s a bit worried about the increased homework workload. Sofia (’33) looks forward to the independence that comes with Middle School, particularly the chance to separate from guys in her classes, yet she also has concerns about balancing seven classes, different teachers, and managing her grades. Trey (’33) is ready to embrace “the next chapter of our lives,” while Nolan (’33) is perhaps most enthusiastic about the chance to have ice cream regularly.

A 4th Grader helping students get out of their car in the morning through the Campus Cubs Program. Photo credit: Jamie Chambers.

The class has a strong sense of closeness, with over half of the students having attended Collegiate since Junior Kindergarten, and there are currently no new students in the group. However, the year holds a special project for them: raising funds for their trip to Washington, D.C., on February 13, which will likely be a memorable experience for everyone. Some students are also involved in the school band, adding a musical element to their activities, while others participate in Cougar Quest after school until their parents can pick them up. Centennial Hall becomes a home base for them, offering a space with a variety of games, a study hall station, and a place to unwind after a day of learning.

One example of a leadership opportunity for 4th Graders is their role as Campus Cubs. This position allows them to serve as role models, demonstrating respect and responsibility. They greet students and families in the mornings and afternoons, assisting with the carpool lines, helping younger students navigate campus, and providing aid to the school community. These instill a strong sense of service and pride in the kids. 

Together, this 4th Grade class is not just a group of students but a community, each bringing their own excitement, worries, and dreams to the table. They are ready to face future challenges, supported by teachers like Chambers, parents, and friends who encourage their growth every step of the way.