Middle school teachers at Inly have the joy of witnessing firsthand how our unique approach fosters a culture of belonging and respect among our students.

At Inly, we believe that a supportive and inclusive environment is foundational for student growth, and this belief is woven into the very fabric of our middle school program.

Respect and Partnership in Learning

One of the most distinctive aspects of Inly’s approach is the use of first names between teachers and students. This practice breaks down traditional hierarchical barriers, fostering mutual respect and creating a sense of partnership. By addressing one another as equals, we cultivate an environment where students feel valued and understood. This mutual respect encourages students to engage more deeply in their learning and to see teachers as partners in their
educational journey.

Morning Meetings: Setting the Tone

Daily morning meetings are a cornerstone of the middle school program. These gatherings are not just routine; they are intentional opportunities to build community, set expectations, and foster a positive school climate. Facilitated by a different eighth-grade student each week, the morning meeting is a chance to talk about events within the community, share important news, discuss current events, and engage in community-
building activities. 

These meetings help to create a consistent and predictable start to each day, providing students with a sense of stability and belonging. They also reinforce the values of respect, responsibility, and collaboration that are central to our school culture.

Leadership and Peer Modeling

At Inly, mixed-age classes are the ideal setting to emphasize the importance of leadership and peer modeling. Middle schoolers take on greater responsibility as the oldest students on campus and serve as mentors to the younger students on campus. This interaction across age groups not only reinforces the older students’ leadership skills but also provides younger students with positive role models.

The act of mentoring younger peers instills a sense of responsibility and pride in our middle school students. It also fosters a school-wide culture of respect and cooperation. Younger students look up to their older counterparts, and the older students, in turn, strive to exemplify the qualities of leadership, empathy, and respect.

“It’s really cool to see all of my friends with different interests and personalities come together and bond. That might be one of the most important lessons I’ve learned, that everyone has something different and important to give.”

– Anna Corbett ’24

Empowering Student Voices

Inly’s middle school program places a strong emphasis on student voice and advocacy. Students are encouraged to speak up, express their opinions and engage in meaningful dialogue. Whether it’s in a morning meeting, during a small group discussion, or one-on-one with a teacher, students feel free to advocate for themselves and their peers.

They become confident in expressing their ideas and respectful in considering the perspectives of others. This skill set is invaluable as it prepares them to navigate complex social dynamics both within and beyond the school environment.

The Path to Success

By nurturing a culture of belonging, respect, and confidence, Inly’s middle school program prepares students for success in life. Students emerge as well-rounded individuals who are not only academically capable but also socially and emotionally intelligent. They learn to navigate challenges with resilience, to communicate effectively, and to lead with empathy and integrity.