CSS

Middle School (6th - 8th Grade)

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A Time of Change...

Like no other developmental stage in a student's life, the period from 11 to 14 years is a dynamic period of change and growth. Our Middle School responds to this transition by providing an important bridge between the self-contained environment of elementary school and the self-reliant approach of high school. Students with varied interests, talents, and abilities excel and strengthen in the CSS Middle School. Students begin to broaden their academic horizon within a safe, supportive, and challenging college-bound environment. With smaller classes, our students become acquainted quickly and develop lasting friendships. They have the opportunity to become leaders, to volunteer in the community, and to challenge themselves and one another as independent thinkers and problem solvers.
  • Seminar I - Outdoor Education
    Early in September, Middle School students build community through outdoor education. Through this fun and valuable opportunity, we encourage students to get to know themselves better, actively participate in direct learning processes both cooperatively and independently, and express thoughts and observations in writing related to science, art, geography, and other academic disciplines. Active leadership and "followership" are emphasized.
  • Seminar II - Career Exploration
    Students have the opportunity to explore a specific career and the various pathways and opportunities within that field. This seminar takes place at the end of February.
  • Seminar III - Spring
    Seminar III for our sixth and seventh graders is a course of in-depth study and experience. Called the "Colorado Experience," it may include topics such as hiking, camping, environmental concerns, politics, history, journalism, and performance. "Walkabout," a special seminar for our eighth graders is a camping and rafting trip that explores adult responsibilities and is a rite of passage and personal growth.

Regular Communication with Parents

Communication between the student, teacher, and parents is frequent:
  • The Middle School Daily Memo is emailed to every family on a daily basis. We use this to provide parents with calendar updates, important announcements and general reminders.
  • On-line access to grades. Middle school parents are able to see their child's grades on a daily basis, or if they prefer, have weekly grade reports emailed directly to them.
  • Student Led Conferences are scheduled in the fall and spring. Each middle school students completes a self evaluation and discusses this with his or her parents and advisor. Additionally, teachers are available as needed or requested throughout the year.

Advisor System
Every Middle School student has a faculty advisor who monitors progress, sets goals, establishes a supportive relationship, and communicates regularly with parents to ensure students stay "on target." Our weekly advisor meetings focus on organizational skills, peer relations, and self-esteem.

Athletics and After-School Activities
Students have a variety of constructive after-school options, including competitive sports (volleyball, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, and cross-country).

Community Service
Students learn the importance of giving to their communities in the "Learning through Service" activities that are organized through the advisee program. Reflection is a key component of our service learning program.

Student Government
Student government has a 12-member senate and four-member executive committee elected by students to serve for one school year. Activities stress social and service efforts in the school and community.