The 8-9 Division bridges the non-traditional structure and close supervision of the lower school and the more traditional, college-preparatory structure of the upper school. The foundation of teaching and guidance in the 8-9 Division is a developmentally appropriate curriculum, emphasizing personal and academic growth in a safe and structured environment.

With a burgeoning sense of wisdom and self, students in 8-9 begin to define themselves as independent actors in the world around them. We gradually increase privileges and responsibilities in the classroom, in social settings, and in extracurricular programs. We begin to integrate discretionary time when students may choose to complete homework, socialize, or enjoy some downtime, helping them develop time-management skills and learn to make healthy, responsible choices. Students are also encouraged to seek new challenges and persevere in the face of the inevitable setbacks inherent to this complicated life stage. Ever conscious of hormonal changes and the social, emotional, and cognitive impacts, we strive to provide a safe environment that allows students to discover what feels authentic so they can move from a more self-centered identity to one that evinces a broader and more community-minded perspective.

I invite you to explore all the 8-9 Division offers. You’ll find a robust academic program coupled with a well-rounded, developmentally appropriate approach to social-emotional education that tends to the whole child.

Elizabeth Payne
Division Head