The Middle School House System is a dynamic way to cultivate community and promote leadership. At the beginning of each school year, new Middle School students are grouped into one of six houses that includes a cross-section of students of different ages and genders, as well as a teacher and administrator. Each house—rich with its own spirit, history, mascot, and motto—instills a deep sense of pride, camaraderie, and unity.
Through the Middle School House System, students experience a strong sense of support and belonging, and cultivate lasting connections at a significant time in their emotional and academic development.
House Council: Leadership in Action
Middle School House System
The House Council is a cornerstone of leadership development within the Middle School House System, directly reflecting the principles of The Liggett Approach. This council provides seventh and eighth-grade students with meaningful opportunities to develop, practice, and refine their leadership skills in a collaborative and supportive environment.
Comprising senior board positions and representatives from each house, the House Council is student-driven, empowering members to take ownership of their responsibilities. Council members are responsible for guiding and planning engaging house activities throughout the year. This leadership experience helps students build confidence, enhance problem-solving skills, and practice effective communication—key competencies emphasized in The Liggett Approach.
House Activities: Building Leadership and Community
Middle School House System
The House System fosters connection and camaraderie through a wide variety of activities, including service projects and outreach, team-building, games, and friendly competitions. These events allow students to lead, showcase their unique talents, and build meaningful relationships across grades, creating a sense of belonging and unity.
House Sorting Ceremony:
Middle School House System
Right from the beginning, with the House Sorting Ceremony, students are welcomed into the community and the silos between grade levels and groups are broken down as students are welcomed into their Houses.
House Activities not only create vibrant and engaging experiences but also instill essential skills that prepare students for success inside and outside the classroom. They exemplify The Liggett Approach by emphasizing personalized, student-centered growth in a collaborative environment.
Steeped in History
Middle School House System
 |
Every new Middle School student joins one of six houses, each representing a unique identity steeped in tradition. Named after the home streets of University Liggett School’s predecessor institutions—Briarcliff, Broadway, Burns, Cook, Parkview, and Roosevelt—each house boasts its own motto, mascot, flag, and rich history. This structure fosters a deep sense of belonging, camaraderie, and pride among students and staff. |
5 Benefits of the Middle School House System
Middle School House System
| Fosters a Sense of Belonging |
|---|
| The House System creates smaller communities within the school, helping middle schoolers feel connected and supported. This sense of belonging is critical during adolescence, promoting confidence and reducing feelings of isolation. |
| Encourages Leadership Development |
| Through House activities and opportunities like the House Council, students can practice decision-making, teamwork, and responsibility. These experiences help middle schoolers develop valuable leadership skills at a pivotal stage in their growth. |
| Promotes Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Community Service |
| Houses bring together students across grades, genders, and backgrounds, fostering teamwork and an appreciation for diverse perspectives. Service projects, such as food drives or community clean-ups, encourage students to work collaboratively for the greater good, cultivating empathy and a sense of social responsibility. |
| Reinforces School Spirit, Core Values, and Healthy Competition |
| Friendly competitions, like academic challenges, athletic contests, and creative events, instill pride and loyalty within each House while strengthening the school’s community bonds. These activities emphasize values such as Excellence, Respect, Integrity, and Community, while teaching students to handle both success and setbacks constructively. |
| Creates Lasting Memories and Enriching Experiences |
| Through traditions, ceremonies, service initiatives, and competitions, the House System provides enriching experiences that leave a lasting impact. Whether mentoring younger students, contributing to group challenges, or participating in community service, students build meaningful relationships and memories that they carry into the future. |
By fostering connection, leadership, and a supportive community, the House System directly addresses the developmental needs of middle schoolers, setting them up for success academically, socially, and emotionally.
