The Power of Being the "Big Kids": Why a Preschool–8th Grade Education Builds Better Leaders

When parents choose a school, they often look at the immediate next step. But at Waldron Mercy Academy, we look at the entire journey. As a Preschool through 8th Grade community, we offer a unique developmental advantage that K-12 schools often miss: our middle schoolers are the top of the mountain, not lost in the middle.

Here's why being the "big kids" on campus is a game-changer for student confidence and high school preparedness.

Leadership Isn't Taught — It's Practiced

In many large school systems, the "cool" leadership roles — leading a prayer service, headlining the spring musical, or running community presentations — go to high school seniors. At WMA, our 7th and 8th graders are the seniors.

Because they aren’t overshadowed by older students, our middle schoolers step up. They lead the morning announcements, spearhead our nationally recognized service-learning projects, and set the tone for the entire school culture. By the time they graduate, leadership isn't a new concept; it's a habit.

The Heart of WMA: The "Big & Little Buddy" Program

The most visible example of this leadership is our Big & Little Buddy program. Every year, our older students are paired with a younger "buddy" for the entire school year. This isn’t just a one-time meeting; it’s a mentorship that defines the WMA experience:

For the Little Buddies: From their very first days in preschool, they have a "big kid" who knows their name, high-fives them in the hallway, and visits their classroom for crafts and holiday activities. It creates a profound sense of safety and belonging.

For the Big Buddies: Our 8th graders learn empathy, patience, and the weight of being a role model. They realize that their actions — how they walk, how they speak, and how they treat others — are being watched and emulated.

Watching a Kindergartener's face light up when they see their 8th grade buddy is the "Mercy Spirit" in action.

Prepared for What’s Next

Does staying in a P–8 environment prepare them for the "real world" of high school? Our alumni and their high school placement officers answer with a resounding yes.

"Waldron Mercy undoubtedly provided the essential skills allowing me to easily adapt to the high school environment. The rigorous academics and supportive faculty equipped me with knowledge of perseverance, determination, and confidence vital to continuing my schooling in new and unfamiliar setting." — Molly Pinheiro '23 (GMA)

"WMA instilled me with many essential skills and teachings necessary to succeed in high school. As I began my time at Saint Joseph's Prep, I felt as if I was prepared beyond what many of my peers were. I was taught not only how to be a great student at Waldron but also a great athlete, leader, and friend, which have all been helpful to my growth in high school." - David O'Connor '23 (SJP)

By staying in our specialized environment through 8th grade, students are allowed to grow at their own pace — staying "young" enough to play and explore, while becoming "old" enough to lead with Mercy values.

Ready to see the "Mercy Spirit" in action? We invite you to schedule a tour and experience firsthand how our Preschool through 8th Grade journey transforms students into confident, compassionate leaders. Visit our Admissions page today to book your visit — we can’t wait to welcome your family to the WMA community!