Advising

The Middle School Advisory Program can be defined as "an organizational structure in which one small group of students identifies with and belongs to one educator, who nurtures, advocates for, and shepherds through school the individuals in that group" (Claire Cole, 1996). Our students are grouped according to grade level and meet with their advisors four times per week. Two of the periods focus on lessons to promote trust and group cohesion, social and emotional learning skills, and self reflection. The other two periods are devoted to Study Hall, a thirty-minute period during which students may work on current assignments, consult with teachers for extra help, or conference with their advisor about their organization and time management skills.

Advisory groups remain together for all three years of the Middle School, so that advisors develop deep insights into their students and students develop deep trust in adults who are committed to their growth and development.  Advisories are paired with Lower School "Buddy" groups and come together once a month to work on service learning projects or other cross-age activities.