Secondary 12-14 Years

“The child looks for his independence first, not because he does not desire to be dependent on the adult. But because he has in himself some fire, some urge, to do certain things and not other things.” —Dr. Maria Montessori, The Theosophist

The Montessori Secondary Program provides rigorous student-centered studies, along with every day hands-on work. The secondary program prepares students to be their best intellectual selves in their physical, cognitive, social and spiritual lives. They are experiencing developmental changes inward and outward that will prepare them for the next level of maturity. Classrooms are designed to promote individual growth to practice self-regulation, organization, time management, and making sound decisions.

Secondary students learn with the completion of projects and presentations. Students work both collectively and independently to achieve success in their education. The classroom environment is inviting and welcoming to stimulate awareness of what is being learned. Students use more technology in the secondary program and are taught how to use technology responsibly. 

Secondary students take a more in-depth look into their responsibility to their community and the world. They learn the value(s) of their individuality, and the importance of the differences surrounding them. Respect for self, others, environment, and communities are an important component to this program.

Throughout the day our Secondary students will participate in the following areas of study.

Practical Life- Our secondary students learn and work through situations relevant to their stage of development. They explore conflict resolution, budgeting and economic strategies. Running a business and developing a business is an integral part of Practical Life studies. 

Language Arts- Language and literacy are integrated into social sciences. Students explore the writing process using a variety of writing applications. Research papers expand knowledge and promote the use of analytical and persuasive writing. Reflections and discussions on reading through joint reading of novels, articles, plays, etc. The eighth grade Capstone Project is developed through out the year. Capstone topics may vary year to year.

Math- Students revisit prior math concepts. Once previous concepts are mastered, students are able to transition to Algebra and Geometry at their own pace. No matter the level of math, students are encouraged to discuss their math studies to promote healthy dialogue with peers, and sharpen math skills among themselves.

Sciences- Students are given the opportunity to gather information through their lab experiments, observations, and analyses. Students are encouraged to discuss their science materials through oral and written communication. Areas of study include biology, astronomy, chemistry, earth science, and more.

Humanities- This class is a union of Language Arts and History. Most of what is presented to learn is motivated by student interest. Conventional and non-conventional methods of presenting research and opinions, are developed in this class. Students investigate the histories of civilizations, social justice, genocide of different groups, foundations of America and more. Additional readings are required. Most readings compliment what is presented in Language Arts.

Peace Education & Service Learning- The topics and programming for this course is led by secondary students. Students identify the characteristic of outstanding leadership and work to mold such traits. Students work together on community service projects and programming for younger students. The ideas, plan, and products of service and programming are all carried out by students.

Spanish/Mandarin Chinese- Students have the choice of studying Spanish or Mandarin as a foreign language. Students will learn the language as well as the culture and customs of those who speak their language of study. Student will complete projects and presentations during their foreign language studies.

Physical Education- Health and the physical well-being of our students is of utmost importance. Students study healthy habits, including physical movement. Outside of the traditional Physical Education, students will also learn martial arts and team-building exercises.

Arts- There are several types of art. Expression through art allows students to express themselves, and tap into their creative selves. Students will be allowed to select visual arts, learning an instrument, dance, and drama as their course of study throughout the year.