Middle School

List of 3 items.

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  Authentic Relationships

  None of the work we do with students is possible without building significant relationships. While many schools talk about the importance of relationships, teachers in the Middle School at St. Andrew’s make it a priority from day one. From small, tight-knit advisory groups to participation in house activities and supporting students in extracurricular activities, teachers get to know each child as an individual, not just as a learner. These intentional connections allow our teachers to challenge their students to reach their potential, to encourage them to take healthy risks, and to celebrate each child’s unique journey during these transformative years. 
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  Leadership, Connection and Belonging

  Leadership is a hallmark of our Middle School experience and it is strengthened by our student-run organizations, house system, and advisory program. Our house system brings sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students and teachers together on a regular basis for team-building activities and friendly competition that foster connection and community-building. It also ensures that new students are seamlessly welcomed into the middle school and that they all belong. 
  
  

  In the more intimate setting that is our advisory program, students meet daily with their advisory to receive academic and social support. Advisors guide students in dealing with self-management, social skills and self-awareness, building relationships, and responsible decision-making. In addition to the houses and advisory, students can explore their interests and passions by joining and/or leading one of our ten student-led organizations. Through all of these, our ultimate goal is to help students learn more about themselves as leaders, discover their voice, and understand their potential to create positive and meaningful change, both at school and within the wider community. 
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  Preparation for the Future

  As students shift from Lower to Middle School, we focus on fostering a love and passion for learning while introducing opportunities and systems to prepare for the Upper School. The focus of this personal growth happens through enriching experiences in all four pillars. Academically, students are engaging with skills and content centered around student interest and alignment. Continuing the whole child model, students take a fine art and athletic component each year with the intention to foster their creative and physical growth. Service learning and experiential programming provide students the chance to connect passions and interests with serving those around them. 
  
  Recognizing that middle school is a time of growth and discovery, we encourage students to explore their interests as both active participants and leaders. This could look like leading classroom discussions, supporting teammates on the field, guiding rehearsals for a performance, or organizing community service opportunities. These opportunities develop confidence and a sense of identity, both traits they will need to be successful at the Upper School.