Middle School
A Message from the Middle School Head
At IDEAL, we offer students meaningful choices that empower them to explore who they are and who they want to become.
Dear Families,
Welcome to the IDEAL Middle School! And welcome to the joys of parenting a teenager – where they refuse to wear a coat in the winter but insist on wearing a hoodie in the summer! As a parent of two budding teenagers and the Middle School Head at IDEAL, I’ve learned that teens are amazing humans, and that doesn’t get said enough.
Middle School is a time of immense change – academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. At IDEAL, we understand that these years are not just a bridge between childhood and adolescence, but a pivotal time for building identity, character, and confidence. That’s why our program is intentionally designed to honor students in these moments of transition.
At IDEAL, we offer students meaningful choices that empower them to explore who they are and who they want to become. They engage in hands-on, experiential learning – from thought-provoking projects to exciting field trips that bring classroom concepts to life. We believe that real learning happens when students are both challenged and cared for, and our school community becomes like a second family. Our dedicated educators know their students deeply and work collaboratively to nurture their strengths and support their growth.
Instruction in our classrooms is differentiated to meet the unique needs of every learner. We cultivate healthy self-awareness, resilience, independence, and a sense of purpose, preparing students not only for success in High School but also for a lifetime of thoughtful leadership and compassionate citizenship.
We are proud to partner with families during these critical years. Whether your child is just beginning Middle School or preparing for what comes next, IDEAL is a place where they can thrive – academically, socially, and personally.
Please contact Hilary Smith, IDEAL’s Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management, to arrange a visit and discover what makes our Middle School so special.
In solidarity,
Joanne Ginis, Middle School Head
Middle School Academics
With small class sizes and outstanding teachers, IDEAL Middle School students learn through experience, discussion, and exploration and develop creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative learning skills to prepare them for High School and life.
Middle School is a time of big changes, and we support students through strong relationships with teachers who guide both academic and personal growth. Each day starts with small advisory groups led by co-teachers who serve as mentors. Throughout the day, teachers and specialists work together to adapt lessons and support every student.
IDEAL values diversity and collaboration. Our students learn from diverse perspectives across subjects such as humanities, global languages, science, mathematics, and the arts. They ask questions, solve problems, and explore ideas through hands-on learning and STEM projects that blend technology, creativity, and design thinking.
Our Diversity Curriculum is a key part of student life. Through assemblies, Community Time, and IDEAL Talks, students explore current events, celebrate achievements, and build leadership and anti-bias skills. They also take part in clubs, performances, and APEX sports.
IDEAL Middle School graduates leave with strong academics, confidence, empathy, and leadership skills that last a lifetime.
Download the Middle School Curriculum Guide here.
