Joining a new school in middle school can feel daunting, but at Krieger Schechter Day School (KSDS), students who enter in grades 1–8 are never left to navigate that transition alone. Through the Bridges Lateral Entry Program, new students and their families are supported academically, socially, and emotionally from day one. In middle school (grades 5-8), athletics plays a major role in helping them feel right at home.
Building Confidence Through Connection
For many new students, sports are the fastest route to belonging. Whether it’s on the soccer field or volleyball court, KSDS student-athletes form instant friendships through shared goals, teamwork, and school spirit. More than 80% of KSDS middle schoolers play at least one sport, joining peers who proudly wear KSDS jerseys and represent the school across the Baltimore region.
Ellie M, a new 5th grader this school year shared, “I get together with my KSDS volleyball teammates after practices. I’ve even made friendships with older middle school students on my team!”
Students don’t just participate, they compete with their heads and hearts, thriving on teamwork, with new students enjoying the level of competitive play from day one. Last year was an exceptional season across multiple sports. Our softball team went undefeated, while our baseball, soccer, and basketball teams each advanced to the championship game in their respective tournaments. We also celebrated individual excellence, with one of our athletes earning an impressive 6th-place finish at the Maryland State Track Meet. Together, these achievements reflect the dedication of our students and the strength of our school spirit.
Meeting Students Where They Are
KSDS recognizes that every new student brings unique strengths and experiences. That’s why Bridges offers individualized academic support in General and Judaic Studies, and dedicated Hebrew classes for those new to the language. For student-athletes, this same spirit of meeting students where they are extends to the athletics department.
With a philosophy centered on growth, sportsmanship, and teamwork, KSDS athletics offers multiple levels of play so students can develop skills, gain confidence, and prepare for competitive high school athletics. Coaches include both faculty and alumni, giving students strong role models who embody the KSDS values of cooperation, loyalty, and responsibility.
Competing with Pride
Each season offers a wide variety of opportunities:
- Fall: Coed Cross Country, Boys’ and Girls’ Soccer, Coed Volleyball
- Winter: Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball, Coed Basketball, Coed Cheer
- Spring: Baseball, Softball, Coed Track & Field, Coed Lacrosse Clinic
For many lateral entry students, joining a KSDS team becomes a highlight of their transition. Through play, they learn the values that define teamwork at KSDS including perseverance and pride in representing their community.
More Than a Transition…a Launchpad
From being paired with buddy families and classmates who share their interests, which often includes athletics, to summer workshops that prepare students for academic success, to ongoing one-on-one support throughout the year, the Bridges program is designed to make the move to KSDS smooth and rewarding. Athletics enhances that experience, helping new students build friendships, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging that lasts far beyond the season.
Max M. and Yonah K.F. both joined KSDS this year and agree that their fall athletics experience has given them the chance to develop new friendships in and out of school.
“Being on the KSDS soccer team helped me discover things I have in common with my new teammates,” said Max M. with Yonah adding that she loved going out for ice cream after the Cross Country State Meet with her teammates.
At KSDS, new students don’t just join a school. They join a team.
