Building Community Through Competition: Our House System at Work

One of the joys of Middle School is watching students discover the power of belonging – to a class, a team and a community. At our school, this sense of connection takes shape through our house system, which brings together students across grades in three houses: Scribner, Leal and Hayward. More than just a friendly rivalry, the houses create opportunities for teamwork, leadership and kindness in action.

On the first day of school, we welcomed new students into their houses, where returning classmates greeted them with smiles and cheers. It was a simple but meaningful reminder that every student has a place here. The day’s highlight was our schoolwide “human knot” challenge, where houses worked together to untangle themselves without letting go. It was fun, but it was also challenging. No group found success immediately… or even after the first two attempts. The activity reminded us all that real progress takes time, patience and persistence, and that the keys to growth are communication and collaboration. These same skills are essential in the classroom, whether students are tackling a group project, solving a math problem together or engaging in thoughtful discussion. The house system reinforces the habits of working well with others, listening carefully and encouraging peers in activities big and small. 

The house system also nurtures student leadership. This fall, eight students stepped forward to run for Captains’ Council, the elected group that helps organize house events and models spirit and sportsmanship. Their willingness to share their ideas and vision in front of all of their classmates is a powerful example of how middle schoolers can rise to the occasion when given opportunities to lead.

What makes the house system so valuable is the way it blends community and competition. Students cheer one another on and take pride in their teams. Importantly, they learn that true competition doesn’t diminish others, but instead lifts everyone up. In moments of challenge and celebration, they discover that camaraderie and kindness make their houses stronger. Scribner, Leal and Hayward are more than names on a trophy or points flashing on an iPad outside the Middle School office. They are families within our school, teaching students every day what it means to belong, to lead and to support one another.

As I watched our students laughing, cheering and working together during the human knot game, I was reminded of why this system matters so much. Middle schoolers are at a time in life when they’re eager to test themselves, but also deeply in need of connection. Our houses give them both. I am so proud of the way our students are already embracing the balance of community and competition – and I can’t wait to see how Scribner, Leal and Hayward will grow together this year. It’s a great year to be a Ram!