Ethical Education in the Middle School

During the Middle School years, students are grouped in supportive grade-level advisories, where they build on social and emotional competencies through hands-on activities. As part of health education, students explore how family, peers, religion, and culture shape moral codes, and they learn to articulate their own. Role-playing teaches students how to recognize inappropriate behaviors and how to intervene with peers.

Occasional Community Chapel gatherings broaden understanding of world religions by introducing specific practices, philosophies, beliefs, and observances. Students practice mindfulness techniques to help manage strong emotions, express gratitude, and be reflective about personal goals.

Students address larger community issues through integrated service learning in each grade. Recent projects have included work with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), the Horizonte School, the Utah Department of Cultural and Community Engagement, Sunnyvale Community Center, the Great Salt Lake Institute at Westminster University, and Crossroads Urban Center. Student-initiated projects are encouraged and individual advisories take on service projects such as IRC's Light One Candle and seasonal food drives.

Weeklong class trips put students in situations where they must be accountable for their own well-being and that of a larger group. In addition, participation in sports enables commitment and leadership. Coaches reinforce what good sportsmanship means for athletes and fans.

Middle School students use iPads and email accounts for schoolwork and are expected to be responsible for their digital footprint. They continue to practice the T.H.I.N.K. test (Is a statement true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, and kind?) to determine whether their online communications are thoughtful and considerate.