About our Classroom
Our Middle School class is made up of grades 7th and 8th. Middle School can be a challenging time as children are becoming more independant and faced with challenges of puberty and navigating friendships, and becoming their own peson. With our 0 tolerance bullying policy, and 10-15 person classroom sizes, we can help children navigate these times by having group discussions, and working as a team with your child. By middleschool, children are able to work on project based work. They learn best by doing and figuring out how what they are learning is applied to the world around them. They are able to take more responsibility in what they are doing and can lead discussions, and lead their own research projects. Just like all of our classrooms, whether they are ahead or behind, they will be challenged and paced with appropriate work. If you are coming from another Elementary Program, no knowledge of Montessori is necessary in order to join our class.
Our Philosophy…
Dr. Maria Montessori, the founder of the Montessori method, identified four distinct phases of a child’s growth, characterized by specific developmental needs. Enlightened
journey Montessori believes it is essential to understand the Four Planes of Development. These planes are divided into six-year periods, with each phase requiring
a unique educational approach tailored to the child’s developmental needs. Our Middle School program is designed as a “Preparation for Adult Life,” providing adolescents with
real, authentic experiences in a supportive environment. Our learning approach allows them to develop their social skills, take on adult roles, and learn from them.
Our Curriculum…
In our middle school program, students are not just taught academic subjects; they are given the tools to become independent learners. The curriculum emphasizes manual
and intellectual work, promoting the idea that both are equally essential to a civilized existence. Subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and history occupy central places in
the curriculum. However, Montessori middle schools also emphasize critical thinking exercises, leadership skill-building, and student-led discussions. Moreover, students continue to learn through discovery and action, becoming more sophisticated thinkers and problem solvers. An integral part of Montessori education is fostering a strong sense of community. Students are provided with numerous opportunities to interact with their peers, work together, and solve problems as a group. This approach prepares them for the social dynamics they encounter in adult society and the workforce. The mathematics curriculum is structured to develop students’ conceptual understanding and problem- solving skills. Students are introduced to Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, and Geometry, with a focus on mastering concepts and preparing for high school Honors and AP courses. Our science curriculum engages students’ natural curiosity, allowing them to investigate topics more fully and develop their understanding of the scientific method. Students are given opportunities to create models, and with their technical writing skills. Students learn advanced reading and note-taking strategies, analyze and interpret primary source documents, role-play in simulations, and work collaboratively to test historical hypotheses. It offers a thoughtful environment, and experienced teachers attuned to the unique developmental needs of adolescents, safeguarding their well-being while preparing them for adulthood. The Montessori approach encourages students to take charge of their learning, fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. In doing so, it helps adolescents grow into self-confident, capable, and contributing adult citizens.