Middle School
In 6th through 8th Grade, Middle Schoolers have the space, support, and resources to grow as scholars, explore their interests, and deepen their sense of self.
We not only know how girls and young women learn best; we understand what Middle School-aged girls need to thrive. During this critical time of academic, personal, and social development, the Garrison Forest Middle School provides the perfect combination of challenging and joyful, immersive and fun to create an environment where girls are seen and heard for who they are as they explore their interests and deepen their understanding of the world around them. From core academic classes to engaging electives and a wide range of extracurricular activities, our Middle School program is designed to help each individual student chart her path to success.
Middle School Highlights
- Signature Projects and Programs: Interdisciplinary, engaging, and hands-on, Signature Projects and Programs in each grade are designed to build skills for future success–critical thinking, collaboration, curiosity, communication, and self-advocacy. From teen activism to an in-depth study of architecture and a focus on women’s health, these initiatives allow students to uncover more of the world around them while actively learning, solving problems, thinking creatively, and working collaboratively.
- Advisory: Our Advisory program isn’t just a class; it’s a relationship that provides an invaluable support structure for every Middle Schooler. Students meet with their advisors every single day, and advisors serve as student advocates, parent liaisons, and, most importantly, true experts on the students in their care. Advisors and Advisory groups are carefully chosen based on the personality, needs, and ambitions of each student.
- Leadership: There are many opportunities for Middle Schoolers to step into leadership roles. Just a few examples are student government (Forum), the Aspiring Leaders Program (ALP), which gives students the opportunity to develop leadership abilities through active participation in and responsibility for school life, Spirit Team captains, and club or team leadership.
- Joyful Community: Girls are welcomed into a spirited, joyful community that celebrates one another for the big moments and the small. The hallways are filled with laughter, and students feel comfortable being themselves and sharing their interests with their peers.
Middle School Traditions & Signature Experiences
8th Grade Capstones
Designed to build research and public speaking skills, Capstones are Ted Talk-style presentations given by each 8th Grader.
Minimester
For one week each year, regular classes pause and students explore hands-on workshops in various topics.
Women of Impact
Each month, 7th Graders hear from Garrison Forest alumnae from a variety of industries to learn about their path to success.
Forest Scholars
Students explore the natural world while learning about a wide range of environmental and scientific topics through Forest Scholars, an immersive, outdoor-based education program for 6th Graders.
Meet Your Middle School Administrative Team
