Program Overview

Middle School classes are designed for students to develop and practice important skills needed for success in the classroom and beyond. Through project-based learning experiences, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while reading and writing across the curriculum. In addition, there is an emphasis on study skills, organization, and time management. Throughout the Middle School experience, students build confidence as they create meaningful relationships with the faculty and their classmates.

Program Highlights • Prep Block

Prep Block is a daily time allotted for students to learn essential study skills and best practices in time management with faculty outside of a more structured learning environment. Students are encouraged to work on assignments and receive extra help from their teachers or instructors.

• Peer-to-Peer Learning Center

Peer-to-Peer support and mentorship has long been identified as a way for participating students to increase their connection to their school community, enhance their cultural awareness, and increase self-esteem and confidence. Malvern’s Peer-to-Peer Learning Center seeks to help students become better at learning and at teaching. Students qualify to become mentors after a rigorous training program embedded in our Tutor and Mentor Curriculum and headed up by our English Department Lead, Susie Sweeney Berlacher, and High School Counselor, Korin Folan. All students have the opportunity to access the Peer-to-Peer Learning Center, which is both a physical place as well as a very special program that is available in our community.

• Counseling Class

Students are supported throughout their Malvern career in myriad of ways, including formal Counseling classes all three years of Middle School. These sessions allow students to surface and discuss relevant topics in a small and supportive environment. The class addresses executive function skills, stress management, social/emotional learning, relationship management, and decision-making.

• Learning Specialist (LS)

The LS provides students with an understanding of their learning profile while offering strategies and accommodations at an independent and classroom level. Learning support offers differentiated instruction using curricular goals that align with students’ specific learning styles. Parent partnership & team collaboration become an essential part of this process. Areas covered include the development of reading/writing skills, study habits, time management, organization, self-advocacy, and executive functioning skills.

• Ensemble (Jazz and Chorus)

All Middle School musicians have the opportunity to join an Ensemble. Ensemble occurs during the school day, so students can participate in other activities before or after school. Middle School Jazz Ensemble and Chorus perform two concerts throughout the year including a Winter and Spring Concert.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

• Eighth Grade Electives

Eighth-grade students have the opportunity to earn high school credit during their final year of Middle School. Students will select two electives that interest them. Electives include Spanish, Media Production, Music Recording and Technology, Studio Art I, and Introduction to Computer Science.

• Keystone Courses

All 6th and 7th-grade students take a different Keystone course each term. Keystone courses include Visual Art, Music, Film, and Lifeskills. These courses allow students the opportunity to explore their creativity while learning essential project-building skills.