Middle School

Middle School students are given ample opportunities to build on their previous educational experiences and refine their skills.  They discover ways in which their talents and interests intersect with the needs of society.  Integral to the program are opportunities for service, critical and scientific thinking, peer editing and self assessment.  The Middle School curriculum includes the “micro-economy” – an ongoing, student-run program that teaches the intricacies and challenges of running a small business through direct
participation in a venture of the students’ own design.

Class trips are planned by the students. They make decisions on what points of interest to include on their itinerary.  Destinations are researched by the students who then serve as “tour guides” as they discover together the cultural and historical significance of the places they visit.  In alternating years, the students visit Washington, D.C. and local places rich in cultural heritage.

At an age when most young people are focused on conforming and staying within their “comfort zone”, our students are taking on new challenges and finding ways to distinguish themselves.  The guiding principle for the Middle School is “freedom with respect and responsibility”. This creates a foundation for personal and academic success as our students progress to high school.
 

“We can fully focus on the many aspects of the whole child –spiritual, emotional and   academic – while watching the student naturally progress at their individual pace through this stage in their development.  Personal styles of learning are fine-tuned and all forms of intelligence are celebrated!" 

                                                                              -Mary Elshaw

                                                                              Middle School Teacher