Six Essential Skills Middle School Students Develop

Middle School is a time of rapid growth and change, both academically and personally. At St. Mary’s, we believe in nurturing well-rounded young women by helping them develop skills that will serve them throughout their education and beyond. From organization and self-advocacy to creativity and community service, here are six essential skills our Middle School students gain.

1. Organization

At St. Mary’s, organization is a foundational skill. Study skills, time management, mind mapping, and growing independence are all key parts of the Middle School curriculum. These tools help students stay on track and develop the habits necessary to excel in Upper School and life.

2. Self-Advocacy

Developing self-advocacy skills is vital. Girls learn when and how to ask for guidance and to articulate their needs in the classroom. Our teachers provide support while also encouraging students to seek solutions independently, empowering them to take ownership of their learning.

3. Communication

A St. Mary’s education places a strong emphasis on communication. In sixth and seventh grades, English grammar, writing, and literature are taught as separate classes, giving girls a solid foundation in the language arts. By mastering these fundamentals, they hone their writing and speaking skills, preparing them for Upper School and beyond.

4. Creativity

Creativity is nurtured as a skill that can be cultivated. Through varied forms of expression—writing, painting, filmmaking, sculpture, dance, and more—students learn to think creatively and explore new ideas. In eighth grade, the Ensemble program provides even more in-depth exploration across disciplines, helping girls develop mastery in their chosen artistic fields.

5. Independent Thinking

Middle School students are at an ideal age to develop independent thinking. They engage in meaningful discussions, supported by research, to explore and challenge their beliefs. By learning civil discourse, students gain the ability to articulate their own perspectives while understanding others’.

6. Community Service

Service learning offers Middle School students a unique chance to engage in long-term community service. Through our partnership with MIFA, seventh graders have the opportunity to better understand the needs of our community while learning compassion, empathy, and their role in the world.

Each of these skills builds a foundation for academic success and personal growth, ensuring that St. Mary’s girls are well-prepared for the future. 

See for Yourself!

Experience the dynamic, supportive environment of St. Mary’s Middle School. Schedule a tour to meet our faculty, explore our campus, and see how we prepare girls to thrive.

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