Gregg Hall News
Character Education: Mentorship
As we welcome the month of April, our Character Education focus is Mentorship. Mentorship is a positive and supportive relationship in which an older or more experienced individual guides, encourages, and inspires someone younger as they learn and grow.
Within our dorm community, mentorship may include:
Having someone to talk to about school, friendships, or personal goals
Receiving helpful advice from individuals with more experience
Learning new skills such as staying organized, making responsible decisions, and managing challenges
Feeling supported by a trusted adult or older student who genuinely wants to see others succeed
Building confidence academically, socially, and emotionally
We would also like to extend a huge congratulations to our March Character Education Student of the Month, Nathalia A. Her dedication, leadership, and positive attitude truly set an example for others.
Independent Living Skills
This month, our Independent Living Skills programming focused on emotional health and stress management. Students explored a variety of healthy coping strategies, including exercise, journaling, quiet reflection, and creative art activities.
Additionally, the girls practiced practical methods to reduce everyday stress, such as time‑management techniques, task prioritization, and maintaining a clean and organized living space. We are proud of the growth they continue to show as they develop lifelong skills that promote independence and overall well‑being.
Dorm Life
Our middle school students recently enjoyed an exciting visit to St. Augustine’s new skating rink. Whether students were experienced skaters or trying it for the first time, everyone had a fun and memorable experience.
Students who are not currently involved in sports or after‑school clubs have been participating in nature walks around campus, learning about and appreciating the diverse wildlife in our surrounding environment.
In the spirit of giving back, the girls also created Easter baskets for our blind and deaf elementary dorm students as part of their community service efforts. We are incredibly proud of their kindness, teamwork, and generosity.
Friendly Reminders
Students will go home on Friday, April 3, and return to the dorm on Monday, April 6, or Tuesday, April 7. We hope everyone enjoys a relaxing long weekend.
Please remember to send your child’s dorm trip permission form and spending money so they are fully prepared for upcoming activities.
McLane Hall News
March was a lively and memorable month here at McLane Hall. With Spring Break right around the corner, our boys enjoyed several fun activities that helped them unwind, connect with friends, and make lasting memories.
March Highlights
Before heading home for break, the boys enjoyed a skating trip where they had the chance to socialize with friends from other dorms. They also had a pizza party in the dorm and took a trip to downtown St. Augustine. The group loved exploring the historic area, taking in the scenery, and choosing their favorite treats. Some went for ice cream, others for tacos or pizza. It was a great way for them to spend time together before the break.
When the boys returned, they settled back into dorm life quickly. They unpacked, caught up with their friends, and ended their first evening back with basketball and football outside. It was wonderful to see them reconnect and share stories about their time at home. They also jumped right back into their routines, daily responsibilities, homework, and spending time together in the dorm.
Character Focus: Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Throughout March, we continued our focus on Critical Thinking and Problem Solving. Students have been practicing how to:
Think before reacting
Look at situations from different perspectives
Make thoughtful, responsible decisions
Break big tasks into smaller steps
Ask helpful questions
Understand the impact of their choices
These skills help our boys grow in confidence and independence, both in the dorm and at school.
Mentorship Program
Our mentorship program continued this month, with FSDB high school students visiting McLane Hall to spend time with our middle school boys. The mentors offer guidance, share their experiences, and encourage the boys to advocate for themselves. These visits are always a highlight—the boys enjoy the conversations, games, and positive role models.
Upcoming Events
In just a few weeks, we will be announcing the House Points winners for the 3rd quarter. We’re excited to celebrate the students who have shown outstanding behavior, responsibility, and teamwork.
We are also launching biweekly gaming tournaments in our game room. Students will compete individually and in teams, working through tournament brackets and aiming for the highest scores. This is a fun way for them to show their skills, practice teamwork, and enjoy friendly competition. In May, we will wrap up the tournaments and recognize students for their achievements and sportsmanship.
Life Skills & Curriculum
After returning from break, we continued working through our life‑skills curriculum. Students have been practicing:
Cooking and baking
Budgeting and money awareness
Advocating for themselves
Showing maturity and responsibility in public settings
Building independence through daily routines
We are proud of the progress they continue to make each week. Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We love watching your sons grow, learn, and thrive here at McLane Hall, and we appreciate the trust you place in us.