Middle School

We believe that adolescents are capable of abstract critical reasoning; that mistakes, recoveries, and repairs foster healthy brain development and self-confidence; and that a balance of concrete skills and higher-order thinking are prerequisites for lifelong learning.

The Marylhurst Middle School program provides children time to grow up, space to play, and rigorous inquiry-based instruction that challenges each student intellectually and socially.

Curriculum in middle school builds on the progressive practice established in our Primary School program: yearlong thematic studies, student-directed learning, and mentor-apprentice relationships provide opportunities for leadership and support the development of individual passions.

Advisory Groups

Advisory Groups at the Marylhurst School will meet daily. Your child will stay with the same advisor throughout their tenure as a Marylhurst middle schooler. Advisory Groups have three main purposes:

• Developing and deepening interpersonal relationships between teachers and students, as well as among the students themselves.

• Providing academic support and enriching the curriculum.

• Building a school culture.

It is the central goal of these small groups to develop positive relationships among teachers and their students. Creating student trust allows teachers to work closely and individually with students in order to support their growth and success, socially and academically. These relationships are vital to creating a shared sense of community.

Advisory Groups ensure that Marylhurst middle schoolers continue to be well known as they navigate the myriad social, emotional and physical changes endemic of the 11 to 14 year old.

Leadership & Legacy

As part of their 8th grade graduation requirements, students partner with community mentors through a Leadership and Legacy project. Students complete an independent study based on their personal passions and future goals. The Leadership portion of the project supports each student in choosing, and then embarking upon, an in-depth study in a field of interest. Each student has the opportunity to engage with a mentor on a regular basis, who serves as technical support in the field pertinent to the student’s topic. Projects culminate in an outcome that has real-world significance.

The Legacy portion of the project asks each student to consider those within the Marylhurst community. What will be left behind as a reflection of their engagement in their Leadership project? It is both an opportunity to look ahead and to reflect on the community of Marylhurst.