Hermosa Montessori School
Tucson, Az. Since 1978.
Middle School (Ages 12-14)
The years between 12-14 encompass a time of rapid growth and change both physically and emotionally. Hermosas middle school environment corresponds to the developmental needs of this age group. The program uses a model developed and implemented by Dr. Elizabeth Coe in the 1980's at the School of the Woods in Houston, Texas. It uses an interdisciplinary academic curriculum model that emphasizes personal and social responsibility, communication skills, and empowerment. Practical application of academic knowledge is also part of the curriculum.
Students chart their progress weekly and share this information with parents. They also plan and initiate parent-student-teacher conferences. Students evaluate themselves in 3 areas: academic growth, individual, and group responsibility. Students work towards 90% mastery in all study areas through classroom presentations and assessments. Two independent study projects are required each year as well as one elective per month in order to address the adolescent need to explore new ideas.
Students learn and practice cooperative skills through community service and community building activities such as the ROPES course. Students build community by creating their own mission statement, and code of conduct. All students participate in an internship program first in schools as teaching assistants, and in the Tucson community in local businesses or with local professionals. Students also serve as peer tutors for younger Hermosa students.