7th through 12th grade
"Education should therefore include the two forms of work, manual and intellectual, for the same person, and thus make it understood by practical experience that these two kinds complete each other and are equally essential to a civilized existence.” Maria Montessori
Adolescent
WMLS Adolescent Classroom
ENVIRONMENT
In the Adolescent Program we empower young minds to explore their potential and discover how they can contribute to the world. Our program offers a vibrant learning environment filled with real-life experiences that bring the curriculum to life. We understand that adolescence is a pivotal time of physical and intellectual growth, and we are here to support each student as they navigate their journey adulthood. Join us in this exciting adventure of self-discovery and personal development!
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The Adolescent needs a learning environment that allows them to feel ‘adult’ and take part in real-world ‘work’, not sit at a desk all day. An important part of this environment is in providing opportunities for choice. Students have autonomy to manage different aspects of life on the land, such as harvesting honey and maintaining the beehives, as well as tending the chickens and selling eggs, to baking and selling their famous cookies, or managing the wood lot on the 18-acre campus.
Expectations of students entering the Adolescent program are high-level independence, initiative and self-motivation in work, working collaboratively with ease, and the passion for learning. These new young adults deal with each other respectfully, with understanding and acceptance of differences, similarities, strengths and challenges.​
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DAILY SCHEDULE AND ACADEMICS
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The Adolescent Class begins promptly at 8:30am with a morning meeting, led by the student council leader. Students are then dismissed to different classes. Whitegate's Adolescent Program operates through a work and study model centered on integrated, project-based learning and active community involvement. Through these projects, students explore subjects such as science, land management, ecological stewardship, biology, chemistry, mathematics, environmental issues, and the humanities. The curriculum is intentionally designed to ensure students gain the knowledge and skills expected in pre-collegiate education. Courses are offered across all program components to meet these academic standards. Additionally, the integration of social sciences throughout the curriculum provides a broader perspective on human activity and its connection to contemporary societal challenges and opportunities.
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OPTIONS
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School Day
The Adolescent program is five days a week and includes children from seventh through twelfth grades.​
8:30am - 3:30pm
$9,360/yr
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Early Care/Late Stay
7:30am - 8:15am
$1,020/yr​
3:30pm - 4:30pm
$1,620/yr