Middle School
Our Middle School curriculum is designed to meet the unique developmental needs of students in grades six through eight. Students at this level must develop their individuality, while also experiencing a sense of belonging.
During these years, change is the norm – and the Middle School faculty and staff embrace that change! Every day, our teachers witness inspiring transformations: the seventh grader intimidated by math becomes a class leader when she suddenly grasps eighth grade algebra; the eighth grader who never heard of lacrosse emerges as a starting midfielder; the sixth grader reluctant to speak up in class finds a new voice in front of the audience in the Middle School play or his public speaking class.
Advisory Program
Each year, every 6th-8th grader is assigned to an Advisory. This group consists of one faculty advisor and 8-12 students who meet daily throughout the week.
The Advisory is a signature program here at LCDS – intentionally designed to encourage healthy cross-grade peer relationships, serve as a built-in support system, and foster a sense of belonging for each of our Middle Schoolers.
Minimester
All Middle School students participate in our signature academic intermission known as the Minimester. This one-week of intensive study prioritizes immersive, project-based learning in a student's chosen field – such as culinary arts, natural history, psychology, or documentary filmmaking.
This is the heart of Minimester: Learning that is lived, felt, and remembered. A week devoted to cultivating the joy of learning for learning’s sake. As our motto reminds us, The spark that kindles the heart and mind illuminates a lifetime.
Science Fair
Every year, all 7th and 8th grader students complete a science fair project as a part of our Middle School STEAM curriculum. Students learn and practice the basics of the scientific method, culminating with a presentation to our full school community. Advanced students have the opportunity to complete in the North Museum Science & Engineering Fair.
Additional Middle School Program Highlights
- An emphasis on critical reading and academic writing skills
- Integrated teaching of study skills throughout the curriculum
- World Languages Offered: Spanish and Chinese in grades 6-8, with Latin beginning in 8th grade
- STEM offerings including competitive LEGO robotics, animation art, programming, and a 6th grade fundamental technology course
- Visual and performing arts electives include studio art, photography, dance, choral and music ensembles, and theater
