Each year, Dedham Middle School principal Debra Gately, vice principal Margo Fraczek, their staff and teachers take in approximately 200 new sixth grade students from the town's four elementary schools.

At the start of the school year, the students are divided up in to groups - "Dexter" and "Fairbanks." Each team is made up of a mix of children from Oakdale, Avery, Greenlodge and Riverdale.

Recently, the Dedham Middle School hosted an incredible event. The sixth grade Team Building Orientation (called: "When Four Become One") was held at the school, to review what it means to have goals and how to succeed.

The day long event had the students participate in a variety of "getting to know you" activities, followed by a pizza lunch in the cafeteria. After lunch - the teachers and staff brought the group to Memorial Park where they took part in team-oriented cooperative games and activities.

Throughout the day, the students talked to one another about their personal interests and experiences.

The result was a huge success !