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Each year I talk with Springmont parents who are exploring other schools.  Some are simply planning ahead but others seem to have an unfounded worry about what’s next for their child, are searching for that ever-elusive ‘perfect fit’, or are looking because friends or their child’s classmates are looking. While I am a firm believer in looking ahead, as both the Director of Admission and a parent of a Springmont graduate, I also firmly believe in the benefits of staying at Springmont through Middle School.  

Last year, I referenced a Harvard Ed magazine article and an NYU study citing good reasons to stay in a K-8 (rather than K-12) school, and this information bears repeating.  The Harvard Ed Magazine article cites a study that indicates students who leave early “…lose ground in both reading and math compared to their peers who attend K-8 schools.”  An NYU study argues that K-8 students have “…more positive views of their academic abilities.”  Additionally, mixing middle school with high school students can add too much social and academic pressure for young adolescents.  Staying in a K-8 program allows students to develop leadership skills and to be role models in an age-appropriate environment – a hallmark part of a Montessori education.

 Springmont’s Middle School carefully and intentionally prepares students for what’s next….high school and beyond.  If you’re exploring, please make sure you explore Springmont, too! Observe in the classroom via Zoom (at your child’s current level and at the next level).  Come to our upcoming Virtual Look Ahead events.  Ask lots of questions – seek out current Middle School families and even recent graduate families.  Most importantly, remember, you are NOT a sheep – there is no need to follow the herd.  Don’t think that just because another family is looking elsewhere that you should too.  For now, sit back and relax.  Let your student enjoy his/her Springmont years; then apply out – for high school! 

"My only regret is that [my daughter] moved out early...keep 'em in there, they turn out to be such amazing human beings...you are so lucky to have your children there." 

- from an alumni parent excerpted from the Alumni Panel (see below)