The Middle School The Dalton Plan in practice, Grades 4 through 8
T
he Dalton Middle School has developed a program to address the unique academic and social needs of young students during this crucial stage in their development. It provides a transition from the protective, self-contained classrooms of the First Program to the departmentalized High School. The Middle School years offer students many opportunities to explore their identity and to discover how to navigate individual needs within a community rich with multiple needs and perspectives. During this time of self-discovery, students are encouraged to participate in clubs, find their voice academically, make connections with teachers using the Lab system, and increase their social network. To foster this, the Middle School environment is one
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where equity in all its forms— gender, race, religion, economics —is valued and present in the curriculum, in House, and in Health classes. The hallmarks of the Middle School program include: A home base within the school community guided by caring, experienced adults. It provides a social environment that is warm, secure, and student-centered (House). n
n Opportunities
for the exploration, development, and expansion of knowledge, skills, and criticalthinking capacities while providing for individual interests and talents (Assignment). n Personalized,
specific assessment and evaluation of student work, and regular student-teacher conversation ensuring support and feedback (Lab).
The House is central to the Middle School program. House Advisors guide students through the school year by carefully following progress in all disciplines, by mentoring young students, and by functioning as the primary liaison with parents. Middle School teachers serve as House Advisors. This special role as an advocate and mentor assists teachers in building special partnerships with students. The greatest benefit of the House system in the Middle School is that it provides adequate time and space as well as a forum for students to learn important life skills and to engage in cooperative discussion. House is a time for dialogue, learning, reflection, and problem solving. It is an important time of the day when students learn about community, and it is a place where they are able to contribute their
