Adolescent Program (7th – 8th)

The Adolescent Program places a strong emphasis on creativity, problem-solving, and community involvement. Through hands-on learning experiences and a rigorous curriculum, learners tackle challenging subjects such as humanities, STEM and Faith Formation.

Ages: 12 – 14
Grades: 7^th – 8^th

In the Classroom

The Adolescent Program curriculum offers a dynamic blend of academic rigor and personal growth. Core subjects include History, English Language Arts (with a strong focus on writing and research), hands-on Science (with lab work), Math at four levels, Religion, and Spanish. Learners also participate in Erdkinder, a Montessori program whose name means “children of the earth.” Through farm work, woodworking, and small-scale business ventures, learners gain real-world experience and develop independence, responsibility, and a strong work ethic.

The program is enriched with Socratic Seminars, interdisciplinary projects, weekly Community Meetings, Solo reflection time, and Mass—fostering both intellectual and spiritual formation.

Homework

Learners who work fastidiously at school can expect to have less homework. Learners who struggle with time management will have more homework. There is a time-management learning curve going from 6^th to 7^th level during which time the learner will have more homework. The leads and aide of the MS work closely with students on planning and management.

Field Trips

There are two four-day field trips each year:

Both falls: Hocking Hills for community building

Spring Year A: Monticello, Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Mount Vernon

Spring Year B: Washington, DC

Technology

Chromebooks are available for student use during designated times, averaging 25% of the learner’s time. Sophisticated technologies are introduced in the STEM program as relevant to labs and curriculum.