The Middle School Years
In the Middle School years, our curriculum continues to include the basic subjects of Math, Science, Social Studies and Language Arts. Though overall we continue a playful approach, we of course begin to tackle subjects of increasing complexity and seriousness. And, expect a new level of independence and executive functioning as students are given independent projects that promote time management, organization, and strategic-thinking. Their advisory curriculum begins to focus on team-challenges that force them to develop communication in a collaborative setting, learning to express ideas clearly, speak publicly, and listen actively. On top of this, we require “life-skills” classes like: financial literacy, speech and debate, social media responsibility (netiquette).
School-Wide Events
As the student leaders of the school, our middle school advisory takes these skills further by planning and hosting school-wide events such as the Halloween Haunted House, Community Dinner, and Talent Show. Students apply collaboration, leadership, and problem-solving in real-world contexts. They learn event logistics, scheduling, promotion, and teamwork—skills that prepare them for future academic, professional, and community roles.
Halloween Haunted House
Community Dinner
Talent Show
Overnight Trip
At the end of the year, middle schoolers have the opportunity to participate in an overnight trip that reinforces these same advisory skills in a new environment. In past years, students have traveled to Big Bear and Catalina Island, where they balanced outdoor adventure with team-building and reflection. These experiences strengthen independence, communication, and collaboration as students take responsibility for themselves and support one another in shared challenges. The trip serves as a capstone to their year of growth and a celebration of their leadership within the ASTEME community.