Middle School
McLean’s Middle School is a happening place!
Our Middle School is uniquely tailored to the complexity of adolescence and the time of self-discovery. Our highly qualified teachers understand and appreciate the individual learning styles of our students, and recognize this important period of growth and change. Learning Specialists provide expertise in meeting the academic needs of students, and providing strategies and problem-solving techniques. Our counselors promote character development, while encouraging self advocacy and self confidence.
Middle School is critical in preparing students for academic success in Upper School and beyond. We offer a strong and competitive curriculum. In grades five through eight, English and literature are separate courses, the key to developing exceptional writers and enthusiastic readers. Grade five uses a multi-sensory approach to study American history; grade six explores ancient civilizations, while seventh grade students focus on Geography. With the study of United States history, grade eight students gain exposure to a variety of historical perspectives. Math students in grades five through eight work in small groups based on skill level and learning style; the eighth grade math course also covers background required for Upper School level work in algebra and geometry. The science curriculum focuses on the scientific method, helping students develop skills in hypothesizing and scientific reporting. Courses in Spanish and Latin provide experience with other languages and cultures; American Sign Language is offered in grades seven and eight. Students engage daily in physical education classes, and in addition to academic work, grades seven and eight have access to such electives as art, band, drama, music (strings and chorus) and technology.
Weekly Community Meetings strengthen our connections, with discussion groups, poetry readings, musical performances and presentations from visitors. Our Middle School teachers, counselors, specialists and advisors form close bonds with the students to provide role models and mentors during this critically important time in students’ lives.
At McLean, students feel accepted and well supported, and emerge with a stronger sense of self and others.