Project Description
Admission
While there is no absolutely strict formula to which we adhere, the Middle School staff attempts to maintain a balance of 7th and 8th graders. We simultaneously strive for diversity within our student population and a common sense of “group.” As a result, we look for students who we think will thrive within the Harmony community. Sometimes, these are students who have a distinct need for a more personalized, supportive, social environment. And sometimes, these are students who simply want a more creative and academically-rigorous atmosphere. We prioritize the whole student and want to optimize appropriate challenge levels for their academics. We pride ourselves on having a healthy, fun, and supportive community.
We hope you apply and if you are interested please fill out an application and contact our office for further information.
Curriculum
Classes
Core classes include Math, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts. We also offer 5th period (see below), physical education, current events, Explorations (student electives), and art and team building. Our Middle Students also have the opportunity to take High School level classes and earn credits to their future diploma.
“5th Period” is an afternoon class that meets for a semester, mixes high school and middle school in classes that students select, subject matter ranging from art to calculus.
Students also participate in family meetings, small groups, daily clean up, all school meetings, convocations, parent/student/teacher conferences and Friday afternoon special events such as ice skating, hiking, indoor climbing, walking, and sports.
Homework
We work very closely, even side by side, with students on their school work. Family and play time is virtually important to a child’s psychosocial development so homework is limited. We encourage students to get involved in extracurriculars outside of school as well. We try to foster personal responsibility and work ethic during classes so they can use their class time well without the need to take work home. If a student is in need of additional support, we can set up after school study hall support.
Credit
We do not give letter grades but have two parent/student/teacher conferences to assess student progress. We will also provide updates on student progress as needed throughout the year. Parents are encouraged to meet with staff whenever needed to clarify goals and expectations.
In order to graduate, students must receive credit from their middle school teachers in their core subject, credit in social responsibility (indicating that the student was an active member of the Harmony Middle School community who could demonstrate that they are an independent learner), and eighth graders must complete a graduation project.
Social/Emotional Learning
Students in the middle school and school wide adhere to our community ethos which in a nutshell states that everyone’s bodies and feelings are to be safe and respected. If we have conflict with one another we try to work it out first as ourselves, then with mediation. To do this we teach and practice emotional regulation and conflict resolution. Along with this, we also engage in classes taught by Middle Way House that include Building Healthy Relationships and Digital Safety.
Projects
Exploring the world via independent projects is a fundamental part of the Middle School. Our goal is for students to discover subjects they feel passionately about. These can be in almost any area — the arts, sports, reading, hobbies, politics, computers, etc. We’ve found that the depth of engagement and understanding in one subject can inspire students to excel similarly in other areas. Students will engage in at least 2 different independent projects throughout the year that includes the planning portion, research component, and a presentation to the class.
We think the ultimate goal of Harmony Middle School is to help students become truly invested in themselves, their classmates, and the wider world around them.
Field Trips
Trips are an integral part of the Harmony Middle School experience. As such students are expected to choose, plan, and participate in them. We take many field trips every school year including plays, hikes, baseball games, ice and roller skating, bowling, and much more.
We want students to have a direct say in their education. Likewise, we want them to be able to impact their fellow classmates in meaningful and positive ways. To achieve this, we give students a choice in classes, activities, trips, etc. and a voice in decisions that directly or indirectly affect them. In family meetings, students literally create and enforce the rules. It is this democratic atmosphere that ensures that every individual is valued and respected.
Family Meeting
Family Meetings are Harmony School’s democratic governing system. The Middle School tries to hold family meetings once a week, or when needed. It is led by students and is the means by which we make decisions, and address problems to find solutions. Family meeting is a school-wide institution and together with Student Solidarity allows for student voice on issues that relate to them and the school.
Unique Policies
Personal Interest Curriculums
If your student has a personal interest such as music, a trade, language, higher levels of education, etc. we have the flexibility to set them up with mentors inside or outside of the school to further their education.
Lunch
We have an open campus lunch policy where the students can leave Harmony grounds for lunch as long as they have at least one other person with them.
Kitchen Use
Middle School students are allowed to use the kitchen at lunch as long as they clean up after themselves.
Thank you for interest in Harmony School! If you would like to reach out to us with questions or comments, please fill out and submit the form below. We’ll respond to you soon.