Middle School: March 16 - 20, 2026
Hello, Middle School Families,
After analyzing the multiple problems facing the nation after the Civil War, the class studied in depth the country’s attempt at Reconstruction. Students discussed the differences of opinion on how the country felt it should move forward and mend the divide, as well as the various attempts to do so.
While the class learned about the hardships after the war (such as the necessity of the Freedman’s Bureau and National Guard to combat “Black Codes” and groups designed to terrorize African-Americans and their white allies), this was balanced with studying the victories of African American voters during this time. Students heard the biography of Hiram R. Revels, the first African American to serve in the US Senate.
Essay writing this week was balanced with artistic outlets. Students utilized a new medium to draw a charcoal portrait of Lincoln. Utilizing the various capacities of light and dark with charcoal, as well as mixing blending, shading and lines was a technique that took patience and a bit of experimentation, meeting the Middle Schooler perfectly.
Finally, students finished the class reader that we started earlier this year, Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson. This week, we utilized a different class discussion structure called Harkness Discussions. This method is a roundtable discussion of the book where each student has the opportunity to talk and share their thoughts and opinions. Students met this new experience with maturity and the class had several excellent discussions on the larger themes of the book. Additionally, students had a “Discussion Table” Bingo card to help provide inspiration on how to participate in the conversation (such as relating the discussion topic to their life, present day, or another book they have read). It has truly been wonderful to see this Middle School class rise to meet these discussions about the different times in our nation’s history with maturity and thoughtfulness.
Announcements & Reminders:
Grandfriends Day is coming soon! Wednesday, April 1st, you, grandparents, and other special grownups in your child’s life are welcome to join us in our forest classroom for light refreshments and time to enjoy your student in their school environment! Guests are also encouraged to attend the Grade performance at 10:30 a.m. Please remember to e-mail your visiting guest information by Friday, March 27th.
April 1: Grandfriends Tea at 11:00 (All students and family members are welcome to join)
April 6-10: Spring Break (No School)
April 24: Annual Auction Fundraiser (Half Day)
April 25: Community Work Day
Thank you for the honor of teaching your children,
Ki Lesley
