Middle School (Grades 6-8)

ACADEMIC

In Middle School, the framework for the written and taught curriculum is derived from Common Core/AERO/NGSS standards. As in our Lower and High School divisions, inquiry drives our approach to teaching and learning. Middle school students receive instruction in their core subjects (English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies) grouped with their grade-level peers. In addition to core academic subjects, Middle School students have two Language classes: Lithuanian language and culture (for both native and non-native Lithuanian speakers) and a choice from the World Language offerings (French, German, Russian, and Spanish). In World Language classes, students are grouped by proficiency in the target language. Through weekly Physical Health Education, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and the AISV Community Life (AISVCL) program, the Middle School offers a balanced, co-curricular program that allows students to explore their individual strengths and interests.

To yield higher motivation, independence, and empathy, Middle School students engage in active, experiential learning opportunities both in and outside the classroom. Meaningful learning experiences focus on the questions, issues, and concerns of early adolescents in relation to their world. Additionally, teachers collaborate to encourage students to connect knowledge and skills among the disciplines. Our curricula ensure that students are internationally minded and engage with both local and global contexts in their learning. By reinforcing overarching Approaches to Learning and IB Learner Profile Traits, students develop increasing responsibility for their learning and self-management throughout their Middle School years. We promote compassion and respect for others and an understanding of the impact of our words and actions on our school community as well as the world at large.

AISV Community Life

The overarching purpose of AISV CL in the Middle School is to encourage the development of a well-rounded community. AISV CL allows staff from across the school to take an integral part in our community-building effort that is directed toward the enhancement of our Middle School Wolf Pack. This program encourages school-wide communication, strengthens team-building skills, allows for the exploration of skills and interests both inside and outside of the classroom, provides time for teachers to advise students on academic, social, or future-planning situations, and ensures that at least one adult in the school is getting to know each student well, making sure their learning needs are being met, and encouraging them to make good academic choices and plan for their future. In the Middle School, our AISV Community Life program specifically consists of daily Homeroom meetings with a small group of students and two Advisors, weekly elective classes driven by student interest, monthly student-led assemblies, weekly academic enrichment and support activities, fun and engaging activities through Connect Friday, and weekly Advisory periods. Our program is further enhanced by our plethora of extra- and co-curricular activities and athletics extra- and co-curricular activities and athletics.