Middle School Day

At the Middle School level, the regular school day includes academic classes in humanities, science, math, Spanish and Latin as well as opportunities to engage in meaningful social interaction and to experience self-worth through real and important work—a process Dr. Montessori termed “valorization.” On any given school day, Middle School students can be found engaging in some type of community service, outdoor education or field study within their academic classes.

Other school days are set aside for dedicated field trips, service work and outdoor education. Immersion Fridays are reserved for sustained and authentic work with significance beyond the four walls of the classroom.

Regular School Day

Drop-off at 8 AM

Having time to unpack their things and greet friends is a positive way for adolescents to begin their school day. The Middle School Commons is supervised every morning beginning at 8 a.m. MS students are encouraged to take advantage of this time to unpack their things, greet friends and connect with teachers.

Community Meeting at 8:30 AM

The school day officially begins at 8:30 a.m. with a Community Meeting attended by all Middle School students and staff. These meetings provide a daily forum to look at the day and week ahead and to discuss important issues affecting the Middle School community.

Academic Classes

Advisor Group

Within the larger Middle School community are Advisor Groups led by an Advisor and made up of students from 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Students get individual help with academic organization from their Advisors who focus on the personal growth and development of each student. Advisor Groups meet once a day and also gather together for lunch. There is time set aside for community meetings, with a focus on group problem solving and personal reflection.

Academic Classes

Lunch and Recess

Advisor Groups have lunch together every day either somewhere outside on campus or in the Advisor’s classroom. After lunch, all Middle School students have recess together. Unless weather conditions are unsuitable recess is outdoors.

Academics & Specials Classes

Dismissal at 3:15 PM

Optional After-school Arts & Athletics until 5 PM

Students of all experience levels are encouraged to participate in Middle School after-school arts and athletics. We believe the adolescent brain, in particular, is strengthened by trying new things, taking risks, making mistakes and learning from them. Middle School arts and athletics are designed to support both the novice and the practiced. All participants, regardless of experience or technical skill, have something to contribute. Athletic teams meet after school on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Tuesdays and Fridays are reserved for arts programs.