Breaking Up with Middle School, One Song at a Time 

For the past four years, Project Success Senior Facilitator and Expeditions Curriculum Associate Clayton Delp has helped eighth graders mark one of life’s first big transitions in an unforgettable way: by writing breakup songs to middle school. 

This year, Sanford Middle School students took part in the annual tradition as they prepared for the transition to high school. To help them reflect, Clayton asked students to imagine middle school as a relationship they’re about to end. Through original breakup songs, they captured the highs, lows, lessons, and memories of the past three years while looking ahead to what’s next. 

The songs are as unique as the students who write them. Some are funny. Some are heartfelt. Some celebrate friendships and memories, while others tackle challenges, frustrations, or hopes for the future. Together, they capture the wide range of emotions that come with growing up and moving on. 

One standout from this year’s album was a song called Red Brick Road, written by eighth grader Oliver. Filled with vivid imagery and detailed musical direction, the song reflected both Oliver’s creativity and his passion for music. Clayton recalls that Oliver included notes about everything from guitar effects to vocal harmonies, showing just how much thought he had put into bringing the song to life. 

“It was cool to see his song come to life,” Clayton says. “We’re using something students love in a way that’s productive for them emotionally and for their reflection. That’s what I’m trying to get at. You can use art to help your understanding of the world.”