The Middle School (5-8)
Students in the middle school (grades 5–8) are empowered to become more independent as they start to question the world around them. The academic program is increasingly challenging as boys are now ready to tackle more abstract concepts. They explore new ideas, delve more deeply into topics, and consider other perspectives. Our middle school is a place where boys can begin to discover who they are and what makes them tick. Teachers provide a structured yet supportive environment in which each boy can build confidence as he identifies his own passions and talents.
Inclusive and active curriculum
Our curriculum focuses on rigorous skill building in reading, writing, mathematics, applying the scientific method, and speaking world languages. Creative writing, essay composition, and public speaking are emphasized. Boys learn to organize their own academic work to become independent learners. Students connect with the local and global community in a variety of ways. They experience a camping trip designed to stretch them beyond their comfort zone. They visit Dearborn, Michigan to examine Henry Ford’s vision and innovation that helped transform the United States. They participate in field studies to research urban issues and explore Cleveland’s neighborhoods. They visit local companies to consider how emerging technologies are shaping the digital age and participate in their own design-thinking challenges. And they examine the concepts of leadership and engaged citizenship as they tour Washington, DC. Optional global travel programs are also offered as another way for boys to explore the world.
Engaged faculty and ample resources
Caring and dedicated mentor-teachers in the middle school are attuned to every boy’s unfolding maturity. Each student is assigned a faculty advisor to oversee his academic and personal progress and to serve as a liaison between the school and the family. Teachers inspire students to strive for excellence, capitalize on their natural curiosity and energy and encourage them to demonstrate kindness and responsibility. The middle school is designed to meet adolescent boys where they are in their development. They have their own science labs, library, student commons, ping pong table, basketball hoop, and outdoor courtyard. Conway Hall contains a state-of-the-art theater and auditorium, music classrooms, and a student art gallery. Middle school students also have access to STEAMworks, our campus maker space, where they design, build, tinker, and iterate.