Bringing Middle School Learning to Life
In Middle School, the Liggett Approach engages students at a pivotal stage - when they are beginning to define themselves and their place in the world. Our program blends academic rigor with meaningful, real-world experiences, empowering students to take ownership of their learning, embrace challenges, and grow with purpose. With expert guidance and a strong sense of community, students build confidence, character, and the essential skills needed to thrive in high school and beyond.
Middle School
Student-Centered Learning
Empowered Education
In Middle School, students are given the freedom and responsibility to shape their own educational journey, fostering independence, engagement, and confidence. From classwork to co-curriculars, choice is embedded in all aspects of learning. Students may select which topic to research, which initiatives to engage in, or which club they want to lead.
Middle School
Student-Centered Learning
Meaning Over Memorization
We prioritize meaning over memorization - encouraging students to ask questions, make connections, and understand the “why” behind what they learn. Through Place-Based Learning trips and real-world experiences beyond the classroom, students deepen their understanding and discover the relevance of their learning in everyday life. This approach fosters critical thinking, stronger retention, and a genuine love of learning.
Middle School
Student-Centered Learning
Valuing Student Voices
Every spring, middle school students take the reins in discussing their own progress through student-led conferences. In these inclusive presentations, students - supported by their advisors - share examples of their work and articulate their academic growth. By actively participating in this process, students develop essential life skills, from communication and goal-setting to self-reflection and ownership of their learning.
Middle School
Excellence Through Rigor
In Middle School, we believe that true rigor lies in the ability to think critically, push beyond perceived boundaries, and take ownership of the learning journey. Our challenging curriculum balances core subjects with a deep study of modern language and culture, robust elective and co-curricular offerings, community service, and place-based and experiential learning experiences.
Middle School
Excellence Through Rigor
Standards of Excellence
Rigor in Middle School also means developing time management skills, navigating social structures, and learning to advocate for themselves - preparing students for success both academically and as individuals.
Middle School
Excellence Through Rigor
Rigor That Matters
Through our innovation and design curriculum, students master the design-thinking process, tackling challenges with creativity and resilience. They’re encouraged to take risks without fear of failure, gaining confidence as they learn from mistakes. This structured problem-solving approach becomes a key asset across subjects and in their academic toolkit.
Middle School
Strategies That Drive Growth
Meaningful Assessment
We use a range of formal and informal assessment tools to track growth and provide meaningful feedback. Middle School students participate in assessments like NWEA/MAP throughout the year, allowing our faculty to personalize instruction, ensuring every student reaches their full potential. For incoming students, math and modern language placements are based on skill rather than age, ensuring each student is challenged at the right level. Our student-centered approach, combined with our deep understanding of each learner, allows us to meet their unique needs and set them up for success.
Middle School
Strategies That Drive Growth
Growth Beyond Grades
At ULS, growth is driven by personalized learning, real-world experiences, and a comprehensive, well-rounded approach to assessment. Combining valuable insight from many sources allows our teachers to adjust their instruction to meet each student’s needs, with a focus on deep understanding and skill-building over memorization. This intentional, tailored approach ensures that every student is both challenged and supported at their level.
Middle School
Strategies That Drive Growth
Redefining Success
Beyond classroom learning, students are encouraged to engage in projects that allow them to apply their skills in inspiring ways. Opportunities to participate in prestigious programs like the DAR Essay Competition and Smithsonian History Presentations allow students to reach for excellence, with some being recognized at the national level.
Middle School
Practical Learning for Life
Middle School learning extends beyond the classroom, equipping students with real-world experiences that deepen their understanding of the world. Students are given an abundance of opportunities to engage in hands-on activities that empower them to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. Going beyond rigorous coursework, we challenge students to advocate for themselves, communicate effectively, and manage their time and resources to achieve specific goals.
Middle School
Practical Learning for Life
Real World Learning
Whether creating a podcast for English class, conversing with local elders in Chinese, composing a song, managing a club, raising and releasing salmon into the wild, or creating CAD designs, ULS students put their learning into practice, developing transferable skills that will serve them in Upper School, college, and life.
Middle School
Practical Learning for Life
Cultivating Community
Students engage in experiential learning opportunities like Religious Diversity Journeys, where they reflect on cultural and religious traditions. These firsthand experiences broaden their perspectives, fostering empathy, understanding, and a deeper appreciation for the world around them - preparing them to be thoughtful, global citizens.
The Liggett Approach in Action
The Liggett Approach adapts to every stage of development, fostering inquiry, creativity, and intellectual growth. Explore how it shapes students into independent thinkers and lifelong learners from their first day through graduation.
Explore the Liggett Approach at Every Stage