The adolescent classroom focuses on the unique needs of 12-14 year olds and is accomplished through work, community experience, self-discipline and socialization. In this rapid period of growth, activities are geared to provide the students with a positive self-concept, to make appropriate choices for their lives and health, and to contribute to society. One of these opportunities includes a week-long internship program where students work on real-life issues, set goals, make decisions, and work with people of different ages and levels of experience. Students write a resume, practice interviewing skills, and compose business and thank you letters. According to Dr. Montessori, we are to prepare our young people with "skills for a lifetime." Career education and internship experiences help build a positive work-ethic and greater self-esteem.
This rigorous academic program includes work in core curriculum areas, as well as Spanish, music, art, physical education and computer studies. The students further develop skills necessary to be successful in competitive high school environments. Adolescents practice a greater degree of self-reliance, autonomy and community building. The program requires off-campus opportunities for learning. This may include overnight stays at additional costs.
Excerpts from Know Your School by Carlyn Wagner.