Sixth through eighth graders at Holy Family School in Dale City participated in a new initiative: student-led conferences. Headed by middle school English teacher, Janine Gervais, this was an opportunity for students to welcome parents and guardians to the school May 26 to share academic accomplishments as well as setbacks from the 2025-26 year.
Gervais and the students prepared for the conferences by reflecting on and collecting artifacts from the school year to document their learning journey. They presented their failures and successes and created new goals for themselves with their families.
Christina Mendez-Hall, assistant superintendent of Catholic Leadership and Accreditation, and Diane Elliot, assistant superintendent of Student Support Services and Federal Programs, attended and represented the diocese. The students rose to the occasion with confidence and professionalism when leading their conferences, according to organizers.
There was 100% parent participation and positive feedback. One parent shared that this student-led initiative gave her son the opportunity to take ownership of his learning and sharing his progress with confidence. Another parent said it was a great tool for middle schoolers’ success.
The conferences were touted as an invaluable experience for students, families and the school community.
