Grades six, seven and eight comprise PNA’s Middle School. Our approach to middle school education is unique in Anchorage, in fact it’s unique anywhere in Alaska. All subjects are taught by specialists: language arts, humanities, science, math, Spanish, physical education, performing arts and studio arts. Small classes and personal attention enable our students to learn in a safe environment that supports their transition from child to young adult.
Preparation for the transition to high school underlies the PNA academic program. Our rigorous course of instruction provides a solid foundation for future school success, and PNA students typically average near the 90th percentile nationally in their language arts and math performance.
The community around us in the Anchorage area is an integral part of our academic program. Annual service programs in the community are part of the normal life of a PNA student. The annual Middle School retreat each fall helps students to build a strong foundation for continuing to be a positive, contributing member of community as an adult.
For each student, there is a teacher/advisor who supports the student in his or her academic, social and emotional growth. Students at PNA develop a strong sense of ownership in the school. They are involved in setting goals for themselves. They’re also included in rule-making for their class and daily, student-led meetings where they grapple with school and program issues and learn leadership and communication skills while building relationships.
In the Middle School classroom, you will see children actively engaged in their learning – not the passive style so common in our own early education – and still way too common in public education. To give you a quick example of the difference: Much of our instruction has a seminar-style feel. Teachers and students sit around wooden tables and engage in rich, deep discussions – whether the topic is genetic engineering or the American Revolution. PNA students tend to do a lot more independent thinking and then presenting orally or in writing about their thoughts and findings.
In the world of technology, our students also benefit from a well-equipped science laboratory, a green house and a dedicated computer lab. At PNA, it’s all about hands-on and heads plugged in.
Travel is another important part of middle school. Our sixth grade traditionally spends a week in the Puget Sound, learning to sail a 61-foot yawl and conducting water quality experiments. Seventh graders travel to Washington, D.C. as a capstone activity to their study of U.S. History and Civics. The culminating trip for our eighth graders is an international trip. During the 2006-2007 school year, the destination was Great Britain with a Shakespeare and theater focus. For the current school year, our students will travel to Spain to deepen their Spanish language skills and enrich their understanding of European art and culture.
PNA highly values a strong, positive working relationship with parents, and a weekly Middle School newsletter is part of that process. Navigate further in the PNA website for specific information about additional, class-specific items. And never hesitate to call with your questions. It would be our pleasure to meet and walk through the school with you.
