Middle School

Welcome to the Middle School – an academically challenging and developmentally appropriate experience for students in grades 6 – 8. The Middle School faculty is committed to excellence, and they have been selected for their experience, expertise and dedication to providing a student-centered learning environment. The vision for the Middle School program is to provide a broad range of opportunities to address the unique needs of the pre-adolescent/adolescent child. Our goal is to know each student personally; to know the "whole child" and to identify, nurture and develop their strengths by  providing the 21^st century skills for success in Upper School, college and life.

The curriculum includes the core subjects of language arts, math, science, history and world languages.  Elective opportunities are available for all students in the areas of visual and performing arts.  Computer class is a required subject and technology is integrated into all curricular areas.  Field trips are an extension and enhancement of our curriculum, and provide opportunities for collaboration, team building and critical thinking skills.

The Middle School student is expected to take more responsibility for their learning, community involvement and leadership.  Realizing that the partnership between home and school is vitally important, active communication through the Weekly Window, website homework posting, parent/student conferences and a strong advisory program are important components of the Middle School experience.

The Middle School also places importance on instilling ethical and moral responsibility in all students. The Character Education curriculum teaches the nine core values and students are recognized for exhibiting these in their everyday lives. In addition, all 8^th grade students take the required Service and Leadership course that provides both skills and experiences in this important area.

During the often turbulent adolescent years, the Middle School at CSN provides a balanced, nurturing and caring environment for all of students to grow to their full potential.  The Middle School is truly a very special “community of learners”.

Middle School Highlights

• Students have the opportunity to take advanced and honors level courses
• A broad range of elective choices provide opportunities for students to explore new interests and to develop strong passions
• The development of ethical and moral responsibility is a commitment in curriculum and experiences
•  Experiential field trips - 6^th and 7^th graders visit Pathfinders, and the 8^th graders travel to Washington, D.C. for a week