A Montessori education is preparation for life, and by early adolescence students are ready for more freedom AND more responsibility. The Middle Schoolers have been working on weekly Practical Life challenges to learn new skills and contribute meaningfully to their families, which in turn builds confidence and self-esteem. They’ve been learning everything from how to clean a bathroom, wash windows, and change sheets to home renovation projects, baking cakes for sibling birthdays, assisting younger sisters with reading homework, and contributing to the larger community through raising funds. It’s amazing what this age group is capable of when given encouragement, guidance, and trust!