Middle School Studio

Middle School Studio
(Ages 11-14)

The Middle School Studio (Launching in 2019) is for students ages 11-14 who have already proven that they are able to work independently. These students will work on difficult real world problems and learn to write and think more deeply. Students continue collaborating, building their character and building friendships with their studio-mates who will challenge and support them through peer review of their work. This Studio ultimately brings students to a deeper understanding of their character, while they explore their natural talents and gifts to discover who they are and where they are headed.

Our Middle School students take control of their learning

Engage deeply

Work on difficult real-world Quests. Learn to calculate, write and think more deeply.

Have fun

Students develop a positive self-identity surrounded by friends who will support them.

Find a calling

Learners explore their gifts and passions through apprenticeships which provide opportunity to develop real world skills.

Working hard. Having fun. Preparing to change the world.

21st Century Learning

  • The latest in educational technology for self-paced mastery of reading, writing and math skills.
  • Deep Socratic discussions about heroes, history and self-governance to hone critical thinking skills and the ability to powerfully think, write and speak.
  • Hands-on project based Quests to master the tools and skills needed to solve problems in the real world.
  • Written promises and covenants that form a tightly bound community of individuals learning to form authentic friendships and honestly resolve interpersonal problems.

Apprenticeships

Each summer, our Middle School students obtain an apprenticeship. They experiment with entrepreneurs, scientists and community leaders, honing their most precious gifts and talents until they find a “calling” in life.

Learning Environment

  • Field trips and guest presenters to extend learning beyond the classroom.
  • Outdoor space with playground, open grass area, and community garden.
  • Student led PE with different activities every week.
  • No homework or frequent testing.
  • Fun and enriching family activities to foster a strong school community.

A Learner-Driver Community

  • Students create and sign a Contract of Promises describing how each individual will act and the consequences for violating community norms.
  • Mentor teams encourage younger and older students to listen, affirm, set goals and hold each other accountable.
  • “Learn to Be” badges that celebrate character and completing leadership challenges.

Measuring Mastery

Young heroes celebrate the mastery of tools, skills and character by earning badges, assembling portfolios and taking part in public exhibitions.

  • Parents use badges to track academic progress in Core Skills like reading, writing, math and spelling and character development in “Learn to Be” Badges.
  • Electronic and hard copy Portfolios capture rough drafts, photos, video and other creative work.
  • Public exhibitions at the end of most Quests allow young heroes to present work to experts, customers or the public for a real world test.