Junior High
The Junior High experience
Paideia’s Junior High combines 7th and 8th grades in a unique program that fosters critical thinking, problem solving, creativity and academics. We want our early adolescents to discover who they are – as people and as students. Junior High students learn to express ideas clearly through their writing and speech, strengthening the analytical skills that keep their growing minds engaged.
Students’ academic experience is centered around their homebase classroom, which is supplemented by robust specialist courses in math, science, language, music, art and PE. Our teachers approach their students with a sense of adventure, patience, partnership and humor, creating an environment where students feel safe to take risks and develop their individual voices. Open classroom layouts encourage collaboration, and lessons are designed to spark curiosity and confidence.
Homebase
Emphasizing an interdisciplinary approach to literature, writing and social studies, homebase classes stretch students to read between the lines. Through writing and literature, students learn to consider different interpretations and question choices about authors and characters. Social studies classes are designed to promote dialogue and understanding across differences by studying history, geography, government and current events. Students leave Junior High with strong research skills, clear guidelines for effective writing and a sense of historical context, preparing them for a rigorous high school experience.
Each homebase classroom is a multi-age setting led by two dedicated teachers. This structure intentionally serves as a bridge from students’ elementary experience to what awaits them in high school while also offering ample room for creativity and individualization.
Beyond Homebase
Math
Multiple curricular paths allow us to place students in the math courses best suited for them. Some courses are designed for students who thrive at a faster pace, while others provide additional time to revisit and strengthen key skills. We offer leveled math courses, which include Pre-Algebra and Algebra 1 classes in 7th grade, and Algebra 1 and Advanced Topics in Algebra in 8th grade.
Science
Our Junior High science curriculum focuses on life science for 7th graders and physical science for 8th graders. Hands-on experiences, group projects, labs and lectures make our science curriculum come to life. In life science and physical science, our teachers emphasize experimentation, the scientific method and problem solving in order to lay a strong foundation for future work in the sciences. Throughout both years, students have access to our two STEAM labs, offering them opportunities for creativity and deeper exploration.
Modern Languges
Spanish and French are offered to Junior High students. By the end of 8th grade, students complete the equivalent of one year of High School language. Utilizing a combination of activities and spoken language, students grow their confidence, comprehension and writing skills in the target language while deepening their appreciation for and understanding of a variety of world cultures.
Short Term
Our spring term ends in mid-May, offering students a revised Short Term schedule built around their individual interests. Traditional courses end, allowing our 7th and 8th graders the opportunity to take new courses ranging from boat building and cycling to birding and photography. For those who enjoy theater, Short Term is also when students rehearse and stage the Junior High musical.
Learning Support
In junior high, the learning specialist is a source of guidance and support with more focus on executive functioning and academic skill development. Support at this level can be provided in a group setting or one-on-one.
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Student Experience
Athletics
Junior High is a perfect time to jump into a new sport, or to continue building skills in a sport your student already loves. With teams made up of players at all levels, there’s always room to try something new, grow as an athlete and discover unexpected talents. Most students play at least one sport per year. Sports available to Junior High students include soccer, volleyball, Ultimate Frisbee, cross-country, basketball, baseball, tennis, track, golf and swimming.
Music & Art
In Junior High, students select band, orchestra or chorus. In these courses, they learn music theory, instrumental or vocal technique, and perform in several concerts throughout the year. Students also take visual arts, and are exposed to a wide range of materials and projects, including printmaking, self-portraits, sculpture, drawing and painting.
Clubs & Leadership
Clubs are an excellent way for students to make new friends, pursue passions and practice leadership skills. There are more than 20 different clubs, including science club, academic bowl, book club, robotics, cooking club and Model UN. Students can run for the student council, which focuses on organizing dances and planning school-wide activities.
Junior High at a Glance
- Combined 7th and 8th grade homebase classrooms
- Led by two teachers
- Bridges elementary and high school
