A Montessori-Based Learning Community for Adolescents
Founded by
Tracey Etelson & Patti Mitchel
Dear Parents,
There is a moment in every child’s life—often between the ages of 10 and 14—when something begins to shift.
Curiosity deepens. Identity awakens.
And too often, traditional education narrows just as the child is ready to expand.
We have created this middle school for that moment.
This is a place where students are not managed—but guided.
Not pressured—but challenged.
Not defined—but discovered.
With Love and Grace,
Patti and Tracey
Creative Learning approaches
✳︎
A strong sense of identity
✳︎
Confidence in their voice
✳︎
Critical thinking and collaboration skills
✳︎
A deep understanding of their role in the world
Creative Learning approaches ✳︎ A strong sense of identity ✳︎ Confidence in their voice ✳︎ Critical thinking and collaboration skills ✳︎ A deep understanding of their role in the world
Our Vision
Adolescence is not a problem to be solved—
it is a transformation to be honored.
Students are not just learning facts.
They are forming identity, values, and voice.
Here, learning meets life.
A Three-Year Journey
Year One —
Identity & Power
Who am I? Where do I stand?
Power vs. Force —
Colonization in the Americas
Self-Determination & Sovereignty —
American Revolution
Growth & Development —
Westward Expansion
Year Two —
Systems & Consequences
What have we built—and at what cost?
Self vs. Other — Civil War & Reconstruction
Innovation & Progress vs. Sustainability —
Industrial Revolution
Personal & Global Economics — World War I
Year Three —
Responsibility & Awareness
What will I choose now?
Cooperation & Collaboration — World War II
Values & Goals — Mid-Century America
Mind vs. Matter — The Information Age
How Students Learn
Students engage through:
Project-based learning
Interdisciplinary studies
Collaborative group work
Independent reflection
Real-world application
Students don’t just absorb information—
they engage, question, and create.
Personal Development
Each unit integrates:
Self-awareness
Emotional intelligence
Responsibility
Ethical thinking
Identity formation
Students are not only learning history—
they are learning themselves.
Program Schedule & Daily Rhythm
Our program is designed to provide both structure and spaciousness—
a rhythm that supports focus, independence, and meaningful work.
Days of Operation: Monday through Thursday
Program Hours: 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Fridays: Expedition Day
Experiential learning, field studies, and real-world exploration
Optional Extended Day: 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Tuition & Program Contributions
Base Monthly Contribution
$1,000 per month
Expedition Fees
Varies based on destination
Extended Day Option
$200 per month
Supplies & Technology
Provided by families
Enrollment Process
1. Schedule a conversation with the Founders
2. Share about your child
3. Student visit (if applicable)
4. Enrollment decision
Get In Touch
If you're interested in working with us, complete the form and we will reach out to schedule a call with one of our founders. We'll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.
Student Exhibitions
Each unit culminates in meaningful demonstrations of understanding:
Debates
Simulations
Presentations
Creative projects
Public showcases
Every student presents individually and contributes to a group experience.
A Typical Day Includes
Morning work cycle (deep focus time)
Seminars and group lessons
Community dialogue
Outdoor time and movement
Project and exhibition work
What Students Become
Students leave with:
A strong sense of identity
Confidence in their voice
Critical thinking and collaboration skills
A deep understanding of their role in the world
They are prepared not just for high school—
but for life.
Closing
Middle school can be a time when students shrink…
or a time when they expand into who they are becoming.
We are here to create the latter.