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Children ages 11-14 grow and change more dramatically than at any other time of their lives. Physical growth, social/emotional maturity and abstract thinking all develop during these preadolescent years.
The Sewickley Academy Middle School is a place for students to belong, not merely attend. It is the link between the dependence of childhood and the independence of imminent adulthood, the nexus between Lower School and Senior School. The three-year program is designed to capture the energies and captivate the multiple interests of preadolescents as they grow and mature. Daily academic, artistic and athletic opportunities assure successes for all students while educating their minds, their hearts and their hands.
Program
All students study a core curriculum of English, social studies, mathematics, laboratory science and a second language (French, German or Spanish) each day. Teachers focus equally on academic skills and content. In addition, students are active each day through physical education or interscholastic team athletics. Options include baseball, basketball, cross-country, field hockey, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, softball and tennis. Performing or studio arts classes (band, chorus, drama, song and dance, or visual arts) along with Life Skills (health and wellness classes are offered daily. Continuing a practice established in Lower School, homework-or academic practice-is a daily requirement. Finally, community service or meaningful group volunteer work on behalf of others also continues through the Middle School years.
Daily Gatherings
Each school day opens with Advisory, or brief meetings of ten students and their advisor. Advisory is followed by Announcements, a time for all students and teachers to gather in the Heagy Commons to share the daily-doings of the Middle School. Academic classes, a morning break, lunch and physical education/athletics provide an essential balance of hard work and vigorous play.
Extracurricular Activities
Students have multiple opportunities to become involved in extracurricular activies. At Sewickley Academy, three distinct athletic seasons allow students to participate on teams throughout the school year. The Middle School musical and play, and all-school concerts showcase our arts program, as does the Middle School Evening of the Arts. Student Council, Mathcounts, computer club, after-school arts bunch, newspaper, and Science Olympiad are other activities that bring students and teachers together to share common interests. Finally, each grade participates in a class trip that takes them away from campus for several days.
Faculty
Wisdom and dedication coupled with an understanding of the unique social and emotional needs of preadolescents characterize our Middle School faculty. Teachers combine expertise, energy, empathy, guidance and a love or learning, often with a zany sense of humor, to teach Middle School students effectively.
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