A Distinct Approach
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The Middle School program is designed to nurture the intellectual, ethical, social-emotional, and physical development of young scholars as they transition from childhood to adolescence. During this time, we challenge our young people to develop independent thinking, innovation, and leadership. Students prepare for the Upper School by gradually transitioning from fixed classrooms with one teacher to rotating classrooms with multiple teachers. Students experiencing such rapid growth flourish in an educational environment that is distinctly different from either the Lower or Upper School models.
Students at this age undergo a significant shift in both their cognitive abilities and socioemotional awareness. We foster this growth by structuring the curriculum around discussions and activities that connect classroom learning with the world beyond our walls. Emphasis on organization, critical thinking, and treating everyone with dignity is central to all learning and aligns with our mission.
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Academics
The academic curriculum offers core courses that challenge students’ intellectual, artistic, and athletic development, as well as electives that spark new passions.- Foundational courses include English, mathematics, science, history and social science, and world languages.
- Enriching co-curricular courses include a variety of electives, such as public speaking, multimedia, and environmental science.
- The progress of each student is monitored by an advisor, the grade-level team of teachers, the dean of students, and the head and assistant head of Middle School.
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Arts
The arts at LJCDS offer students numerous opportunities for expression and self-discovery across a variety of media in the visual and performing arts. On-campus art exhibitions, play performances, and music concerts are just a few examples. Classes include:- Drawing
- 3D Art
- Engineering Design and Construction
- Painting
- Band
- Strings
- Vocal Music
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Athletics
The athletic program provides students with opportunities to develop physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally. Grades 5–6 students focus on building PE skills that will help them compete on interscholastic teams available to students in Grades 7–8. Athletic options include:BaseballFlag football Swimming Basketball Lacrosse Tennis Cheerleading Soccer Track and Field Cross Country Softball Volleyball Fencing Strength Conditioning Yoga
