The Middle School Program
CVM2S - Middle School Taken to a New Level
The Chemung Valley Montessori Middle School's truly innovative approach offers a rigorous academic curriculum in a setting that promotes student independence and self-discipline. The integrated course of study develops abstract thinking, creative expression and real-world exploration. It includes rich programs in Spanish, art, music and physical education. In addition, CVM²S provides opportunities for student governance; the chance to run a student business; and exploration through internships and community service.
In recent years, significant research has focused on the needs of adolescents and outlined the optimal learning environment during this critical period.
In 2002, the Carnegie Council completed a ten-year study on adolescent education and reported its results in “Turning Points 2000.” The following outlines their findings, numbered below, and then shows how our middle school offers an environment designed to meet the needs of your student.
Carnegie Council Recommendations
Academics and Much More
- Teach a curriculum grounded in rigorous, public academic standards and relevant to the concerns of adolescents, based on how this age group learns best, enabling students to develop critical thinking, cultural literacy and responsible citizenship.
- Work with community organizations to involve adolescents in carefully-considered service learning experiences.
The CVM²S Approach
Our course of study is expertly designed to engage adolescents in challenging academics, imbue them with a realization of their individual capabilities, and broaden their understanding of the communities in which they live.
Learning revolves around large unit themes such as Change, Community and Stewardship to bind literature, science, social studies and math content and skills.
Academics become practical when students are engaged in meaningful service learning. Math and science skills are acquired, not only for their own sake, but also to complete real-world projects, such as a pond study and topographical map conducted for a local nature center.
Students discover the relevance of social studies through working at food pantries, recording community oral histories and developing a business. Art, literature, music and drama become the means of expressing intellectual and emotional responses to their own experiences, and the method by which they learn to interpret the spectrum of human response to the world.
A Community of Learners
- Create small learning groups to foster a climate of intellectual development and a sense of shared educational purpose.
- Engage in instructional methods designed to prepare each student to achieve higher standards and become a lifelong learner.
The CVM²S Approach
We are committed to providing a quality learning environment for every student. Because adolescents learn best in a small group, where they can feel comfortable and receive the individual attention they need, we have limited our middle school program to no more than 12 students.
Work is done in teams that allow students to feel valued for their strengths while being challenged to grow and succeed.
Since students stay with the same teaching team for both 7th and 8th grades, the staff become mentors, helping them develop long-and short-term educational goals. Individual attention from the faculty and encouragement of self-evaluation gives students the tools to meet those goals and the ability to reflect on their learning process. These are skills they will carry with them throughout their lives.
Adults Who Really Care
- Staff middle schools with teachers who are expert at teaching this age group.
- Empower teachers and administrators to do what is needed to support the educational experience of each student.
- Families should be allied with school staff through mutual respect, trust and communication.
The CVM²S Approach
Our instructors are experts in their academic subjects and hold advanced degrees specializing in adolescent education. They are committed to combining time-tested Montessori educational practices with 
the latest research on adolescent development. These teachers work closely with other faculty members who specialize in instruction in Spanish, physical education and music.
Our small size and independent school status gives our teachers the flexibility to adapt curriculum and instruction to individual needs of students.
Parents are a vital component to any student’s education. Our faculty feels so strongly about this that we supplement regular family conferences with frequent forums, where parents, students and teachers meet to discuss topics critical to the needs of adolescents. This close-knit community of caring, qualified adults supports each student in all of their learning endeavors.
A Healthy Environment
- Academic performance should be enhanced through the fostering of health and fitness. Students who are physically fit, and who understand such health concepts as proper nutrition, are more effective learners and producers.
The CVM²S Approach
We recognize the importance of nutrition, healthy lifestyle choices and physical activity for adolescents, integrating these areas with academics. While taking part in area modified sports, our physical education program focuses on fitness rather than competition, challenging students at their level of competence.
