Undercroft Middle School Program

Middle School
Ages 12-15

The Undercroft Middle School curriculum is a two-year program that reflects the Montessori philosophy, the newest research on early adolescent development, current learning theories, and real-life skills. Language, speech, Spanish, physical education, outdoor education, service learning and fine arts are courses of continuous progress. Science, social studies, geography, health and math are studied by topic. Every 6 weeks, students explore a new topic using a multi-disciplinary approach that allows them to synthesize all of these subjects into one valuable learning experience. As they progress through the school, Undercroft Middle School students become increasingly involved with the community. They continue service projects with community agencies (e.g. Meals on Wheels, Day Center for the Homeless), as well as rely on the community as an edcational resource.

Middle School students also participate in a class run business and learn valuable life skills by living as a group off-campus for one week per month.

Parents are encouraged to read Focus on the Wonder Years: Challenges Facing the American Middle School. This monograph is a comprehensive assessment of the American middle school and makes a compelling case for an environment much like Montessori. Available online at Rand Policy Research.