Our Middle School
At BWL, Middle School is a place where students build confidence, explore their passions, and thrive in a community that values every child. It is a time of discovery that inspires them to dream big, embrace challenges, and grow into the leaders of tomorrow.
The Middle School years are a time of tremendous growth for young people—a period when they begin to think more independently, take on new responsibilities, and discover who they are becoming. At Birch Wathen Lenox, we lean into this moment, encouraging fresh ideas and meaningful challenges that help students grow with confidence and feel ready for what comes next. Our program is intentionally designed to guide them through this exciting stage with the right blend of support, expectation, and encouragement.
In our classrooms, learning is driven by open inquiry and meaningful dialogue. Students are encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, engage in respectful debate, and listen with intention. They take on rigorous academics in ways that feel engaging rather than pressured, discovering how to stretch themselves while exploring intellectual, creative, and personal interests.
Outside the classroom, Middle Schoolers build confidence and connection through community-building trips, service opportunities, clubs, and extracurricular activities. They learn to collaborate, communicate respectfully, and empathize with others—skills that serve them well in high school and beyond.
What truly distinguishes BWL is the sense of community our students and families experience. In the heart of a busy city, our Middle School remains personal, warm, and close-knit. Teachers know their students deeply, supporting them as individuals while encouraging growing independence. Families often share how meaningful it is that their children are both seen and celebrated, all while being challenged to meet high expectations.
Middle School Curriculum: Balance that Builds Brilliance
Our curriculum is designed to give students a well-rounded experience that challenges their minds, nurtures their interests, and strengthens their sense of community. With a daily schedule that supports both focused learning and meaningful enrichment, students discover new ideas, build confidence, and grow in ways that prepare them for the next stage of their academic journey.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
At the core of this balance is a traditional, rigorous academic program that grounds students in strong foundational skills and high expectations. Through a thoughtfully sequenced curriculum, students build the analytical, communicative, and problem-solving skills that prepare them to thrive in increasingly complex learning environments.
ADVISORY & COMMUNITY
Extended Advisory gives students more time to connect, build stronger relationships, and practice communication and constructive dialogue. In these moments, students are finding their voices and stepping boldly into courageous conversations that carry into their classrooms and friendships.
CLUBS & ELECTIVES
With an expanded Clubs program, students have the chance to explore more interests—many even participate in two extracurriculars during the school day. Elective classes add to this sense of discovery, sparking curiosity and giving students the opportunity to stretch themselves and uncover new talents.
RECESS & RECHARGE
A daily midday break with recess anchors the day and ensures that every student has the chance to recharge. For our 7th and 8th graders, a dedicated tutorial period provides weekly one-on-one time with teachers, offering individualized support, enrichment, and encouragement.
WRITING LAB
Our Writing Lab opens new doors for students to refine their skills. Through enrichment projects and personalized guidance, they strengthen their writing, gain confidence, and grow into literary scholars ready to share their voices.
SUPPORTING THE WHOLE CHILD
Every part of the Middle School experience is designed to nurture students academically, socially, and emotionally. Our Middle Schoolers are embracing these opportunities with energy and optimism, while our teachers bring fresh creativity, deeper care, and renewed joy to the classroom.
Middle School Electives: Expanding Horizons
At BWL, learning doesn’t stop with core subjects. Our Middle School Electives program encourages students to dive into areas of curiosity, build real-world skills, and discover new passions. Each Elective is a year-long, project-based course full of creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. These classes complement the academic program, offering experiences that help students grow as independent thinkers and engaged learners.
Electives are designed to be both rigorous and inspiring—whether students are experimenting with technology, exploring culture, or taking on community challenges. Along the way, they gain confidence, sharpen problem-solving skills, and learn the value of committing to a long-term project.
Middle School
Elective Offerings
Urban Agriculture
Students get hands-on experience in our hydroponic farm, while learning about plant biology, sustainability, and the future of farming.
Game Design
By coding their own games, students combine creativity and logic to design interactive worlds and develop problem-solving skills.
Digital Discoveries
Using micro:bits and coding, students create devices like sensors and alarms while learning about data science and real-world applications.
Latin
A lively introduction to Latin language and culture that builds vocabulary, strengthens literacy, and connects students to the ancient world.
Civics & Ethics
Through projects and debates, students explore justice, equity, and civic responsibility—gaining the tools to become thoughtful changemakers.
Entrepreneurship
From idea to execution, students learn how to think like entrepreneurs, working through a structured process with guidance from business leaders.
Independent Study
For self-motivated learners, this option allows students to design their own project, pursue personal passions, and present original work at year’s end.
Co-Curricular Programs
Our co-curricular programs enrich the Middle School experience by extending learning beyond the classroom and supporting students’ social, emotional, and intellectual growth. Through advisory, athletics, clubs, electives, city-based learning, leadership development, independent study, and service, students explore their interests, build meaningful connections, and develop the skills and confidence that prepare them for the next stage of their education.
Advisory
The Middle School advisory program provides students with a consistent, supportive space to reflect, connect, and grow. Meeting four times per week in small groups, students build meaningful relationships with a dedicated advisor who serves as their advocate and main point of contact for families. Through a developmentally responsive curriculum—covering topics such as media literacy, emotional well-being, identity, and ethical decision-making—students gain confidence, self-awareness, and the skills to navigate adolescence with purpose.
Athletics
BWL’s athletics program encourages healthy habits, teamwork, and school spirit. Middle School students have opportunities to participate in a range of sports, including soccer, volleyball, basketball, cross-country, and intramurals, that promote physical fitness, collaboration, and confidence. With supportive coaches and an emphasis on skill-building and sportsmanship, students learn to challenge themselves, embrace competition, and take pride in representing their school.
Clubs and Activities
With more than 25 rotating offerings, the Middle School clubs program invites students to explore new interests and pursue favorite hobbies during dedicated blocks in the school day. From Chess Club and Math Olympiad to Anime Club, Environmental Club, Robotics, Rock Band, and the Middle School play or musical, students can participate in one or two clubs each term—and even join additional activities after school. These experiences help students build friendships, discover passions, and contribute to a vibrant school community.
Electives
Elective courses allow students to personalize their learning and pursue areas of interest through hands-on, project-based exploration. Beginning in 6th grade and expanding in 7th and 8th, electives encourage intellectual curiosity and creative risk-taking. Current offerings include Urban Agriculture, Game Design, Digital Discoveries, Latin, Civics and Ethics, and Entrepreneurship. Students gain deeper academic engagement while developing independence, agency, and new skills.
New York City: Our Extended Campus
New York City becomes an essential part of the Middle School experience, transforming the curriculum into real-world learning. Students study art, history, science, and culture through visits to museums, parks, theaters, and institutions across the city. Fieldwork—whether at the Met, Central Park, or El Museo del Barrio—helps students make meaningful connections between classroom learning and the world around them. Each grade also participates in team-building trips that strengthen community and develop leadership.
Independent Study
The Independent Study Program gives highly motivated 7th and 8th graders the opportunity to pursue a passion or advanced academic interest under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Over the course of the year, students engage in research, writing, and creative or analytical work that culminates in a formal presentation at the Independent Study Symposium. The program fosters deep inquiry, independence, and scholarly confidence.
Leadership
In 8th grade, students participate in a yearlong Leadership course that helps them understand the habits, values, and decisions that shape responsible leaders. Through reflection, discussion, and collaborative work, students explore their personal strengths and consider how leadership connects to community. The year culminates in a capstone project designed and presented by students, showcasing their emerging voices and civic mindset.
Service-Learning
Service-learning is an integral part of Middle School life, encouraging students to engage meaningfully with local and global communities. Through school-sponsored service projects and reflective learning, students develop empathy, civic responsibility, and an understanding of the impact individuals can make. By participating in two service experiences each semester—and often designing their own initiatives—students learn the value of contributing with purpose and compassion.
Middle School Leadership
What's next?
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