Programs

Middle School

Middle School

Grades 7-8

Dr. Maria Montessori

"An education capable of saving humanity is no small undertaking: it involves the spiritual development of man, the enhancement of his value as an individual, and the preparation of young people to understand the times in which they live."

Middle School Curriculum

In all areas, our middle school students learn to think critically, listen carefully, speak succinctly, look at all sides of a situation, form an opinion based on facts, present their views in a non-confrontational and respectful way, agree or disagree with statements instead of people, support their claims based on facts, and clearly and intelligently articulate what they have learned, what they believe, and who they have become.

List of 5 items.

  • Language Arts

    The goal of our language arts program is to promote a love of reading and writing, and to instill the ability to effectively communicate using both the written and spoken word.

    Units are thematic and often correlate to social studies or science topics. Students read a variety of literature including: poetry, essays, speeches, short stories, plays, novels, and articles. They also engage in all forms of writing: expository, persuasive, narrative, and descriptive.

  • Mathematics

    At McMaster Middle School math lessons move well beyond the textbook. Students don’t passively learn the material; they live it. From balancing the checkbook for business committee to scrutinizing the stock market, students are asked to apply mathematical concepts to everyday life.

    Small group lessons and intensive projects encourage students to examine a problem from every angle. The low student to teacher ratio guarantees individualized education and allows students to reach their full potential.

  • Science

    The science curriculum at McMaster Middle School is based on a two-year rotation that includes concepts in Earth, Life, and Physical Science.

    Students study topics in depth, giving them a broad background in the different fields of science. Laboratory experimentation, demonstrations, lectures, independent research, field studies and cooperative learning groups provide a multifaceted approach toward the teaching and learning of the sciences. The interconnectedness of all fields of science is always stressed.

    The wooded trails and category three wetlands on our 37-acre campus allow students to interact with the natural world for scientific observation on a daily basis. Additionally, the greenhouse adjacent to the Middle School science lab offers students the opportunity to engage in horticultural activities and experiments throughout the school year.

    Through observation, students develop an appreciation of the natural world and learn critical thinking skills through experimentation and problem solving.

  • Social Studies

    The social studies curriculum takes a cultural studies approach considering history, geography, economics, and current events.

    The program seeks to take students beyond memorization to a level of comprehension, coherence and critical thinking. A wide variety of resources are used in addition to the text. Guest speakers, simulations, field studies and debates allow social studies to become an inspirational and immersive experience. Lectures morph into classroom discussions generally incorporating the Socratic Method in order to bring forth diverse perspectives and interpretations. Students must harness the power of effective communication through both oral and written projects and presentations.

    Content is taught thematically rather than strictly chronologically. This immersive, interdisciplinary approach to history creates an appreciation for the past, a respect for social systems and a sense of civic responsibility, with an ultimate goal of fostering and encouraging a lifelong interest in the society and world in which we live.

  • Co-curricular Subjects

    Outdoor education, art, music, physical education, and STEM classes are included in each child’s weekly schedule and are taught by specialists in each area of the curriculum. Band is an optional activity.
     
    Co-curricular specialists often work together to plan student performances.

Middle School FAQs

List of 3 frequently asked questions.

  • What are the benefits of staying through 8th grade?

    Middle School is the culminating experience of a West Side Montessori education. It is where all of the independence, confidence, and knowledge that your child has accumulated converges with the maturity of young adulthood. To leave before Middle School is to deny your child the capstone years of an unrivaled educational experience.

  • How is the transition from a small middle school to a large high school?

    A WSM education instills great confidence and independence. Our graduates succeed and excel academically and socially at both public and private high schools.

  • What sort of course placement can I expect for my child in high school?

    94% of our graduates are admitted into multiple honor classes and achieve honor roll status in high school. Valedictorians, salutatorians, National Merit scholars, International Baccalaureate graduates, team captains - these are just a few of the descriptive words we can apply to our alumni.

    What is it about a West Side Montessori education that makes a difference in your child’s development and future success? Is it the confidence? The independence? The ability to prioritize and organize? The extraordinary work ethic? It is all of the above and more. West Side graduates show focused tenacity and persistence in reaching for and achieving their goals in life.

    Our 8th grade graduates are sought after by local private and public high schools. They are noted for their superior academic preparedness, innovative and problem-solving minds, and exceptional communication and collaborative working skills. Our graduates excel in high school, many graduating at the top of their class and head off to college ready to change the world.

Nicole Flores, St. Ursula Academy Principal

"SUA welcomes students from West Side Montessori. The combination of their strong writing skills, along with their critical thinking ability, makes them well-prepared for the rigorous courses offered at SUA."

Toledo Campus

Perrysburg Campus

West Side Montessori is an independent, accredited Montessori school educating children 13 months through 8th grade (preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, and middle school). We are one of the leading private schools in Toledo and the nation.

WSM does not discriminate on the basis of ethnic origin, race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability in the administration of its admission policy, educational policy, or any school-administered program.