Enlightened Journey Montessori

About our Classroom

Our Middle School program serves students in Grades 7 and 8, with classes beginning at 8:15 AM. This stage of development can be both exciting and challenging, as adolescents grow in independence, navigate friendships, experience puberty, and begin to form a stronger sense of identity.

Schedule

Drop-off: 8:00–8:15 AM
Pick-up: 3:00 PM

We intentionally create a supportive, respectful environment to help students through this important transition. With a zero-tolerance bullying policy and small class sizes of 10–15 students, we are able to guide students through group discussions, collaborative problem-solving, and ongoing communication—working as a team with students and families.

By middle school, students are ready for project-based learning that connects academics to the real world. They learn best by doing—applying concepts, asking meaningful questions, and exploring how their learning relates to life beyond the classroom. Students take increasing responsibility for their work, lead discussions, and design and carry out their own research projects.

As in all of our programs, students are thoughtfully challenged and supported at their individual level—whether they are ahead, need reinforcement, or somewhere in between. Students joining us from other elementary programs are always welcome, and no prior Montessori experience is required.

Our Middle School classroom nurtures independence, confidence, and critical thinking—preparing students academically, socially, and emotionally for high school and beyond.

Our Philosophy…

Dr. Maria Montessori, the founder of the Montessori method, identified four distinct phases of a child’s growth, characterized by specific developmental needs. Enlightened
journey Montessori believes it is essential to understand the Four Planes of Development. These planes are divided into six-year periods, with each phase requiring
a unique educational approach tailored to the child’s developmental needs. Our Middle School program is designed as a “Preparation for Adult Life,” providing adolescents with
real, authentic experiences in a supportive environment. Our learning approach allows them to develop their social skills, take on adult roles, and learn from them.

Our Curriculum…

In our middle school program, students are not just taught academic subjects; they are given the tools to become independent learners. The curriculum emphasizes manual
and intellectual work, promoting the idea that both are equally essential to a civilized existence. Subjects such as English, mathematics, science, and history occupy central places in
the curriculum. However, Montessori middle schools also emphasize critical thinking exercises, leadership skill-building, and student-led discussions. Moreover, students continue to learn through discovery and action, becoming more sophisticated thinkers and problem solvers. An integral part of Montessori education is fostering a strong sense of community. Students are provided with numerous opportunities to interact with their peers, work together, and solve problems as a group. This approach prepares them for the social dynamics they encounter in adult society and the workforce. The mathematics curriculum is structured to develop students’ conceptual understanding and problem- solving skills. Students are introduced to Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, and Geometry, with a focus on mastering concepts and preparing for high school Honors and AP courses. Our science curriculum engages students’ natural curiosity, allowing them to investigate topics more fully and develop their understanding of the scientific method. Students are given opportunities to create models, and with their technical writing skills. Students learn advanced reading and note-taking strategies, analyze and interpret primary source documents, role-play in simulations, and work collaboratively to test historical hypotheses. It offers a thoughtful environment, and experienced teachers attuned to the unique developmental needs of adolescents, safeguarding their well-being while preparing them for adulthood. The Montessori approach encourages students to take charge of their learning, fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. In doing so, it helps adolescents grow into self-confident, capable, and contributing adult citizens.