The Hiland Hall School
A Progressive Primary and Middle School in Bennington, Vermont
(802) 442-3868
One purpose of our work in Middle School is developing positive work habits grounded in systems which encourage planning, record-keeping, goal-setting and communication. Directly alongside ideas of work habits and attitude is the concept of citizenship.
The Middle School group works together to identify agreed upon standards while allowing room for change. Matters of public interest are discussed as a whole group as are issues that emerge from the communal learning experience.
Time is made for students to reflect on and discuss the work they have done. These reflections offer outlet for constructive criticisms, sharing of issues (academic, social, personal) and make possible self-realizations about how they are doing and how to plan for future inquiry. Making meaning of an experience is a significant step in the learning process and time is taken to reflect on their work.