Montessori Middle School in Washington, CT

Adolescence is a time of life that involves more change — physical, emotional and cognitive — than at any time other than infancy. Dr. Montessori said “the chief symptom of adolescence is a state of expectation, a tendency towards creative work and a need for the strengthening of self-confidence.” In order to nurture the strengths and support the needs of adolescents, our Middle School program aligns with the teachings of Dr. Montessori, but it has also been carefully designed to prepare students for the transition to high school. 

Middle School students demonstrate mastery in a variety of ways, including tests, projects, papers and oral presentations. While WMS does not give number or letter grades, assessment is comprehensive and ongoing. In addition to regular feedback from their teachers, Middle School students are expected to measure their growth and progress through informal and written self-assessments. This focus on self-evaluation gives students a realistic understanding of their own capabilities and a sense of agency and control over their own education.

Academic excellence is a core goal. So too is character development and social integrity. One of our priorities is to instill in our students the belief that each and every one of them has something important to contribute to the world. Students at WMS learn to take charge of their learning, and they understand through experience that everyone has an equally-important role to play in the success of a community. 

Middle School Goals

• We create a safe, nurturing atmosphere that values respect and involvement
• We create a challenging academic program at all levels and competencies
• We inspire a love of learning
• We help students acquire the tools necessary to learn independently
•  We instill in our students the belief that each and every one of them has something important to contribute to the world