Chatham Day School | Chatham, NJ

The Middle School Division is designed to recognize the multiple challenges and pressures facing emerging adolescents. The academic program centers on the continued development of math and language arts skills, while social studies and science curricula further problem solving and critical thinking skills. The study of Spanish intensifies, and it is incorporated into the daily schedule. Public speaking and performance skills are honed in daily related arts classes that enhance interdisciplinary core content areas.

Students are encouraged to question and think independently as learning goals shift from the concrete to the abstract. They collaborate on projects, study the relationship between history and current events, formulate opinions on literary works, and discuss ethical topics. Importantly, they practice and learn to be independent thinkers and leaders.

Middle school students develop citizenship and leadership skills as they demonstrate care for their environment and community. They organize school events, perform in a choral group, mentor younger students in after school classes, and advocate for change. In short, they learn who they are and how they want to be perceived by the world. They learn that here, in a safe, familiar, empowering community that is preparing them to successfully navigate the demanding social, emotional, and intellectual challenges of secondary school.

As part of their daily physical education instruction, Middle School students also enjoy the new fitness center, where the emphasis is placed on strength and conditioning training, utilizing weights and cardiovascular equipment.