Middle School

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Middle School empowers learners to think critically, collaborate deeply, and step forward as emerging leaders.

The Sterling Montessori Middle School program serves students in Grades 7 and 8, guiding them through one of the most transformative stages of development—the journey from childhood to young adulthood.

Our goal is to help adolescents discover their place in society by nurturing their intellect, creativity, and moral awareness. Students engage in meaningful work, service learning, and collaborative experiences that encourage critical thinking, empathy, and self-discipline.

Through a carefully prepared environment and strong teacher-student relationships, Sterling’s Middle School empowers students to become responsible, engaged citizens and lifelong learners.

To Meet These Needs, Our Program Provides Opportunities For:

  • Independence and responsibility
  • Community and belonging
  • Adaptability and problem-solving
  • Self-expression and creativity
  • Reflection and feedback
  • Voice, choice, and respect
“The reform of the secondary school may not solve all the problems of our times, but it is certainly a necessary step, and a practical, though limited, contribution to an urgently needed reconstruction of society.”
- Dr. Maria Montessori

Fast Facts

Grades 7 & 8 combined in a mixed-age classroom

Typical Daily Schedule
8:45 am – 3:45 pm
Cross-disciplinary lessons that align with NC Standards in Math/Science and Humanities
See the Entire Curriculum (PDF)

Second Plane of Development

Students in the third plane of development (ages 12–15) are undergoing rapid physical, emotional, and intellectual growth. The Sterling Montessori Middle School environment honors this stage by supporting independence, identity formation, and social responsibility.

Characteristics of Adolescence:

  • Rapid physical and intellectual growth
  • Heightened need for peer connection
  • Strong desire for independence and self-expression
  • Developing sense of justice and moral reasoning
  • Emerging awareness of global and societal issues

black and white image of Maria Montessori

Learn More About Montessori

Explore the principles behind the Montessori method and what they look like in our classrooms. Gain a clearer understanding of how this approach supports children at every stage.

The Montessori Method

Curriculum

Our curriculum builds upon the Montessori principle of Cosmic Education, helping students understand the interdependence of all life and the connections between past, present, and future.

Academic Integration

Teachers design interdisciplinary lessons that meet North Carolina Public School Standards while preserving Montessori’s emphasis on exploration and depth of understanding.
Subjects are woven together to create context, meaning, and purpose in learning.

Core Areas:

  • Humanities: English Language Arts, History, and Civics through integrated, project-based learning
  • Math & Science: Applied problem-solving, laboratory work, and real-world applications in Math 7, Math 8, and Physical/Life Sciences
  • Spanish: Continued language development with cultural context
  • Fine Arts: Visual arts, chorus, and band
  • Physical Education: Daily movement and wellness practices
  • Occupations: Real-life skill-building such as gardening, podcasting, and yearbook production
  • Technology: 1:1 laptop program with instruction on digital citizenship and safe technology use
MS Humanities Standards (pdf)
MS Math 7 Standards (pdf)
MS Math 8 Standards (pdf)
MS Science Standards (pdf)
The Sterling Difference

Key Characteristics

  • Mixed-Age Environment: Grades 7 and 8 learn together
  • Student-Centered Program: Lessons delivered to individuals, small groups, or the whole class based on readiness
  • Integrated Curriculum: Cross-disciplinary lessons that align with NC Standards in Math/Science and Humanities
  • Work Cycle: 2–3 hour uninterrupted work periods that promote deep focus and mastery
  • Advisory Program: Small group advisories for community-building and personal accountability
  • Peace Education: Emphasizing positive discipline, restorative justice, social-emotional learning, and anti-bias education
  • Community Service: Active participation in service projects within Sterling and the wider community

Typical Daily Schedule

8:45–12:00 p.m. — Morning Work Cycle
12:00–1:00 p.m. — Lunch/Recess
1:00–3:45 p.m. — Specials / Afternoon Work Cycle

Health Sciences Curriculum

Sterling Middle School partners with the Poe Center Family Life Programs to meet North Carolina Health Standards.

This curriculum supports adolescents’ growing understanding of health, relationships, and personal responsibility.

Topics Include:

Supplimental Programs

  • Technology & Media Literacy Workshops
  • Peer Leadership and Mentorship Opportunities
  • Community Engagement Projects
  • Capstone Experiences — Culminating projects demonstrating mastery and growth