The Elisabeth Morrow School Helps Students Succeed in the Middle School Years and Beyond [dedicated]

Ah, the middle school years. These pivotal times in your child’s life are a journey for kids and adults, as they begin to better understand who they are as learners and individuals, and how they fit into their world. Your child’s social life takes center stage while they may try to assert their independence from their parents. Despite their growing independence, kids in middle school still need a lot of guidance -- both at home and in school -- during this time of self-awareness. Some kids do well in a school that takes them from early childhood to high school, while others benefit from a learning environment that highlights this age group.

At The Elisabeth Morrow School, an independent day school in Englewood, NJ, that culminates with eighth grade, middle school students develop the skills and confidence to become school leaders, and are looked up to as role models. The Elisabeth Morrow School prepares middle school students for long-term success in a number of ways: by providing them with a diverse curriculum that doesn’t align to just one high school; with small class sizes and the development of strong relationships with caring teachers; and through the guidance of a dedicated counselor coordinating social and emotional development and individualized learning (a consistent practice at the school). The Elisabeth Morrow School understands that no two kids are the same.

To gain confidence and achieve academic success, students engage in experiential and integrated learning at every level. This enables them to put what they learn to use, develop a broad sense of themselves and discover their passions -- the beginning steps to a successful life. Students are equally challenged and supported in order to achieve their goals and become their best selves. Within the diverse and inclusive community at The Elisabeth Morrow School, students explore ethical issues using the 4 Cs as guiding principles: courtesy, consideration, cooperation and compassion.

Middle-school students at The Elisabeth Morrow School don’t simply attend school each day, they become active partners in their education. This includes core academic subjects -- and for many, two languages -- as well as electives that pique their interests. Sports teams, a robust arts program with music, drama and visual arts, and leadership opportunities allow middle schoolers the chance to get active and involved in an engaging way.

As any parent of a preteen, middle school child knows, the urge to emulate older kids is stronger than ever. The Elisabeth Morrow School students are encouraged to take on age-appropriate, increasing amounts of responsibility. These responsibilities allow them to act as role models for younger classes and develop as leaders without peer pressure from older teens.

As your family begins selecting a high school during your child's eighth grade year, The Elisabeth Morrow School will be there to guide you along the way through their experienced secondary school placement team. This includes insight into the process, extensive coaching on decision-making and interviewing for students, and help with managing timelines, paperwork and applications for parents. The Elisabeth Morrow School encourages students to take an active role in this process. When students graduate after eighth grade, they are ready to embrace their future education with confidence and purpose, as curious scholars, ethical leaders and global citizens ready to make a difference.

The Elisabeth Morrow School is an independent day school serving children age 2 through eighth grade from more than 55 communities throughout New Jersey and New York. The school is currently celebrating 90 years of exemplary academics and character development in a diverse and inclusive child-centered community, as set forth by the vision, innovation, and passion of founder Elisabeth Morrow nearly a century ago. Get to know EMS a bit better during one of their upcoming admissions events.